Stade Louis II, Monaco – Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) face a crucial first leg encounter against AS Monaco in the Champions League playoff phase on , . The match comes after a disappointing domestic result for PSG, a 3-1 defeat away to Rennes, which saw them relinquish the top spot in Ligue 1 to RC Lens.
PSG coach Luis Enrique addressed the media on Monday, downplaying internal friction following reported frustration from forward Ousmane Dembélé after the Rennes loss. Dembélé had reportedly voiced his discontent with the performance of some teammates, but Enrique dismissed the matter as typical “noise” surrounding the club. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the Champions League challenge ahead.
The tie against Monaco represents a significant hurdle for PSG, who are aiming to regain their footing after a mixed season. Despite currently sitting second in Ligue 1, the club was eliminated from the French Cup by Paris FC and finished 11th in the Champions League group stage. Enrique acknowledged the shift in focus to the “real Champions League” – the knockout stages – and stressed the need for his team to perform consistently.
Enrique highlighted the importance of the upcoming match, stating, “We want to improve our efficiency because we have many players with that quality.” He also noted that despite previous struggles with converting chances, the team’s ability to create opportunities suggests they are often the superior side. He expressed confidence that PSG will rediscover its form quickly.
The Spanish coach also addressed the tactical aspect of the game, specifically mentioning the anticipated duel between the fullbacks. He pointed to the matchup between Monaco’s Caio Henrique and Vanderson against PSG’s Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi, but cautioned against focusing solely on individual battles, emphasizing the overall quality of both teams.
PSG will be without Fabian Ruiz and Quentin Ndjantou due to injury for the match against Monaco. Ruiz’s absence is considered particularly impactful, given his importance to Enrique’s system last season. The team will rely on key players like Marquinhos, Nuno Mendes, and Vitinha to lead the charge.
Monaco, currently eighth in Ligue 1, have also experienced an underwhelming season despite possessing a talented squad. They were eliminated from the French Cup at the last 16 stage by Strasbourg. The pressure is on Sebastien Pocognoli’s side to improve their performance and secure European qualification for next season.
The first leg at the Stade Louis II is expected to be a closely contested affair. Monaco will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and exploit any vulnerabilities in the PSG defense. Enrique, however, remains optimistic, stating that his team is accustomed to overcoming challenging situations and maintaining a consistent mentality regardless of the opponent or venue.
Enrique dismissed concerns about a potentially difficult atmosphere at the Stade Louis II, jokingly suggesting that Monaco’s players might prefer a game without a goalkeeper. This lighthearted remark alluded to previous matches between the two sides where players from both teams have suffered injuries.
The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 in the UK and DAZN in the USA. The return leg will be played in Paris, with the winner progressing to the Champions League group stage.
The outcome of this playoff tie will be crucial for both clubs, shaping their European ambitions for the remainder of the season. For PSG, it represents an opportunity to salvage a campaign that has fallen short of expectations. For Monaco, it is a chance to prove their quality and compete with the continent’s elite.
Enrique concluded his press conference by reiterating his team’s unwavering mentality, stating, “Our mentality does not change.” He emphasized the importance of approaching each game with the same determination and focus, regardless of the competition or opponent.
