The price of the season. Author of three goals on average since August in Ligue 1, PSG once again tripled the score to defeat Toulouse (3-0) this Friday at the opening of the 12th day of Ligue 1. Something to reassure in part before his trip to Bavaria on Tuesday to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League. The victory against TFC took a long time to emerge after a splendid volley in the first half from João Neves then goals at dusk from Lucas Beraldo and Vitinha. Luis Enrique, PSG coach, was at a press conference after the match at the Parc des Princes.
What did you think of the meeting and of João Neves?
LUIS HENRY. It’s a very complete and very good match, very open for both teams. Matches after the international break and before the Champions League are always difficult and this one was no exception. We were up to par against Toulouse, a team which always gives us problems, very well organized by its coach. As for Neves, he played in 6 then behind for his restart. When a midfielder scores a goal, we are satisfied. I preferred his second period. He had a good match.
How do you explain your different effectiveness in Ligue 1 and the Champions League?
The competitions are different. The statistics are realistic in Ligue 1 but in the Champions League, we are below our level. It’s not logical. The Champions League is short but we create an exceptional number of situations. Exceptional! (in French in the text)
Do you confirm the extension of Achraf Hakimi until 2029?
Until the club has said anything, there is no news.
Are you disappointed with your level of play against Toulouse?
We weren’t brilliant and we can play better, yes. But is there a team that plays well all season? To see incredible things, you have to go to Cirque du Soleil.
“The results in the Champions League are not in line with what we deserve”
Do you have any confidence ahead of the Champions League and what did you think of Milan Skriniar’s performance?
This match will be nothing like the one in Munich. We will arrive with the same level of confidence as Bayern who also won 3-0 this Friday evening. It’s positive to win before the Champions League even if it’s not decisive… Milan Skriniar was at his usual level. He demonstrates a professionalism within the reach of few players. He’s all in, always. He is playing less this season and is still training hard.
Against Lens, you explained the start of Matvey Safonov by tactical considerations. Is it the same reason this Friday evening?
Yes. Yes.
Can he shake up the hierarchy?
(In French) Maybe. Maybe yes, maybe no. It’s the accent of Versailles, not of Paris.
In the Champions League, shouldn’t we above all work on the heads rather than any other aspect?
No. It’s not difficult to understand. The opponent has a higher level than in the championship. The championship is consistency. The Champions League is a question of timing. We can lose four group matches and win the Champions League. The results in the Champions League are not what we deserve. We are not that low in efficiency, I have rewatched all our matches. We can make it happen.
