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Tag: Luis Enrique

  • Luis Enrique admits PSG had a tough one with no ‘superior’ Arsenal

    Luis Enrique admits PSG had a tough one with no ‘superior’ Arsenal

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Luis Enrique has admitted uncertainty about how long it will take to rebuild his team into a top contender in Europe following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in Tuesday’s Champions League clash.

    With the summer departure of star player Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid, PSG, a team in the midst of transition, experienced their first loss of the season.

    Arsenal took control of the game with first-half goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka, while PSG came close with two efforts hitting the post but ultimately struggled to break down the Premier League team’s defence.

    Enrique, who sidelined Ousmane Dembélé due to disciplinary issues, took responsibility for the loss but raised concerns over his squad’s lack of determination.

    “Today we were far away from the standards you need in this kind of match. Arsenal were much better in terms of pressure and intensity; they won every duel,” Luis Enrique told reporters.

    “It’s impossible to play for a positive result when you don’t win any of your duels on the pitch; their defenders anticipated our attackers, and our defenders didn’t anticipate their attackers. Arsenal were superior.”

    Last season, the Spaniard guided PSG to the Champions League semifinals, overcoming his former team, Barcelona, in the quarterfinals, with Mbappé netting twice and Dembélé also scoring to reverse the result in the second leg.

    Currently leading Ligue 1 and having secured a win against Girona in their opening Champions League group match, Luis Enrique acknowledged that facing Arsenal presented a much tougher challenge for his team.

    “I can’t properly evaluate the level of our team; we will have to wait until the end of the season,” he said.

    “This was our first big rival at a higher level. We knew from the first minute they would press us high, and they did it aggressively, and we couldn’t cope with that pressure.

    “[Arsenal manager] Mikel [Arteta] has been here for five years; I’ve been in Paris for one year and two months. I don’t know where we are. I have a clear idea where I want us to be, but I don’t know how much time I will need.”

  • PSG’s Luis Enrique admits he prefers a 50% pay cut over meeting with the press

    PSG’s Luis Enrique admits he prefers a 50% pay cut over meeting with the press

    Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has said he is willing to take “a 50% pay cut” if it meant he could avoid talking to the press.

    Speaking ahead of Friday’s Ligue 1 game against Rennes, Enrique said: “I have a lot of fun with you [the journalists], that is the truth.

    “I’ve never shortened a press conference. I love to talk … But if I had the choice and right now I could sign a piece of paper saying I don’t talk to the press anymore and have 25%, in fact 50 % taken off [wages], I would sign it.

    “But I think it’s going to be impossible because the contracts that the clubs sign demand that the coach speaks. I have a good time but if I could avoid it, I would; especially the post-game press conferences because I don’t have the energy to put up with certain things.”

    The former Barcelona, Roma and Spain coach recently showed his frustration during a news conference when he was asked about former player Kylian Mbappé’s start to life at Real Madrid.

    The Spanish manager vigorously shook his head when asked for his opinion on Mbappé’s performance and how his club will move on without him.

    “My God … my God! You’re still here?” Enrique said. “Do you live here [in Paris] or what? Did you enjoy the Olympics? Good.”

    Mbappé’s transfer saga ended in June when the forward agreed to join Madrid as a free agent after his contract with PSG expired.

    The theme of the press conferences was always centred on the France captain, much to the exasperation of Enrique.

    When asked in May, if he had spoken to Mbappé about his move to Madrid, Luis Enrique said: “I think that today is a rainy day, but at the same time very nice because it allows you to breathe a different air.

    “I like rainy days, it reminds me of my homeland, Gijón. I think I have answered perfectly what you asked me.”

  • PSG is the star, not an individual – PSG’s Luis Enrique on Kylian Mbappé exit

    PSG is the star, not an individual – PSG’s Luis Enrique on Kylian Mbappé exit

    Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique is embracing the opportunity to lead a team without a global superstar, following the recent departures of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé.

    After PSG’s 1-0 victory over Girona in their Champions League opener on Wednesday, Enrique was asked about how his squad is adjusting to life without a star player.

    Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, he responded: “Yes, there is a star, one that shines brighter than anything else—and that is the team itself. The team is the star.”

    “It’s amazing. It is a feeling that I try to instil in my players. You see it on the pitch, one for all and all for one, like the Three Musketeers. That is marvellous in a team sport.”

    Throughout last season, Luis Enrique frequently expressed his annoyance at the persistent questions from journalists about Kylian Mbappé during press conferences.

    Mbappé, now 25, left Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) this summer after his contract ended, capping off his final season at the club with a career-best 44 goals in 48 appearances.

    The French forward departed as a free agent, joining Real Madrid just a year after PSG had already lost Lionel Messi and Neymar.

    Messi, the Argentina captain, left PSG in July 2023 to sign with Inter Miami following a two-year stint in Paris.

    Shortly afterward, Neymar moved to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, bringing his six-season journey with PSG to an end.

    Despite losing these star players, PSG, who are chasing their fourth consecutive league title, have started the new campaign in dominant fashion, winning all their matches and scoring 13 goals in their first four league games.

  • “I didn’t hear any booing” – PSG coach after alleged fan jeers at Mbappe’s home farewell

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) coach Luis Enrique stated that he was unaware of the boos directed at Kylian Mbappé by the club’s fans prior to his final game at the Parc des Princes.

    Mbappé, the all-time leading scorer for the club, recently announced his departure from the Ligue 1 champions after seven years.

    Whistles and jeers could be heard as his name was announced in the lineups before Sunday’s match against Toulouse.

    “I didn’t hear any booing,” Luis Enrique said. “I heard lots of support. All I heard was applause, chants and joy, which I think it was what Kylian deserved. The fans were superb, as always.”

    As Mbappé ran onto the pitch to warm up before Sunday’s 3-1 defeat, PSG’s ultra supporters displayed a huge banner with a giant image of Mbappé and the message: “Child from the Parisian suburbs, you became a legend of PSG.”

    Kylian Mbappé played his last home game for PSG against Toulouse on Sunday. Getty
    “I thought it [the tribute] was fantastic and very heartfelt,” Luis Enrique said. “It’s beautiful to recognise the work of a player of his level. He is without a doubt a legend of the club despite his youth. We still have some game left. I wish him the best of luck in his sporting career.”

    Mbappé, widely anticipated to join Real Madrid as a free agent this summer, played the full 90 minutes on Sunday and marked his performance with his 27th league goal of the season.

    When questioned about his decision not to substitute Mbappé to allow for a standing ovation, Enrique explained, “I chose not to take him off because every time I’ve done so in the past, there’s been considerable attention from the press. So, I opted to keep him on for the entire 90 minutes to avoid any frustration.”

    In contrast, Luis Enrique opted not to field Keylor Navas on Sunday, despite the veteran goalkeeper sharing a farewell message to PSG fans on Instagram ahead of what was expected to be his final game at the Parc des Princes.

    Navas, 37, whose contract with PSG expires in June, wrote: “Every second spent at the Parc des Princes was wonderful…It was an honour to defend this badge in this incredible stadium. I still have goals to achieve, but I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to say goodbye to what was my home.”

    Asked why he chose to leave Navas on the bench and start Arnau Tenas in goal after resting PSG’s No.1 Gianluigi Donnarumma, Luis Enrique said: “Regarding Keylor, I haven’t had any news that it was his last game at the Parcs des Princes. So I make decisions based on what was best for the team.”

    Navas got an ovation from the PSG crowd during the league title celebrations after the game.

  • Luis Enrique to stay as PSG boss despite UCL elimination – Sources

    Sources have informed ESPN that Luis Enrique will continue as PSG manager next season, despite the club’s Champions League semifinal defeat against Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.

    In the past, PSG has dismissed managers following Champions League disappointments.

    However, sources indicate that the club is satisfied with Luis Enrique’s performance and believes he can lead the team to greater success.

    Luis Enrique, who celebrated his 54th birthday on Wednesday, signed a two-year contract upon joining PSG last summer. Discussions regarding a possible contract extension could commence soon.

    The Spanish coach has garnered significant support from fans throughout the season, including the club’s loyal supporters who chant his name at every match.

    The challenge of securing PSG’s first Champions League title will become more daunting next season if Kylian Mbappé follows through with his intention to depart the club and join Real Madrid after his contract expires this summer.

    Nevertheless, Luis Enrique has demonstrated a willingness to manage star-player departures at PSG, exemplified by his decision to allow Neymar and Marco Veratti to leave last summer.

    Instead, he has prioritized fostering team spirit and a cohesive identity within the squad.

    Despite their Champions League campaign ending, PSG still have the opportunity to add to their trophy collection this season by competing in the French Cup final against Lyon on May 25.

    Under Luis Enrique’s leadership, PSG has already secured the Ligue 1 title this season, as well as the French Super Cup.

  • Luis Enrique optimistic PSG can overturn deficit against Barcelona


    Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique is confident that his team can bounce back from their first-leg defeat against Barcelona and secure a spot in the Champions League semi-finals.

    Despite losing 3-2 to Barcelona in Paris last Wednesday, Enrique believes PSG are well-positioned to turn the tie around. PSG last reached the semi-finals three years ago.

    “PSG have never come back to win after losing a first leg, but [Tuesday] is the day,” said Luis Enrique.

    “We have a very united group of players, in which there are no egos.”

    Enrique secured the Treble during the 2014-15 season, one of his three seasons as Barcelona manager.

    During his tenure, Barcelona famously staged a remarkable comeback against PSG in the last 16 of the Champions League in 2017, overturning a 4-0 first-leg defeat with a stunning 6-1 victory.

    Barcelona, who have won the Champions League five times, are eager to reach the semi-finals for the first time in five years.

    “We’re not a team that will sit on our lead; we want to take the ball off PSG and win the game,” said manager Xavi.

    “It’s the Champions League; it’s Paris, and a game in which no one will be holding back.”

    Barcelona will be without Andreas Christensen and Sergio Roberto who are both suspended.

    PSG right-back Achraf Hakimi could return after being suspended from the first leg.

  • All the best Kylian – PSG coach bids farewell to PSG’s ‘star player’

    All the best Kylian – PSG coach bids farewell to PSG’s ‘star player’

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager Luis Enrique has bid farewell to star player Kylian Mbappe as the Frenchman prepares to leave the club in the upcoming summer transfer window.

    Mbappe’s reduced playing time under Enrique suggests that his departure from the Parc des Princes is imminent. Real Madrid is reportedly leading the race to sign the 25-year-old forward.

    Mbappe failed to score in Paris Saint-Germain’s 2-2 draw with Reims on Sunday, and reflecting on the match, Enrique commented,

    “I wish all the best to Kylian Mbappé for his future.

    “He’s a fantastic player and even more so as a person. I really wish him all the best”, he told Prime Video.

  • “We have to get used to not playing with Kylian” – PSG coach on early substitution of Mbappe

    “We have to get used to not playing with Kylian” – PSG coach on early substitution of Mbappe

    Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique emphasised the need for his team to adapt to playing without Kylian Mbappe following the striker’s substitution during the draw against Rennes.

    Mbappe, who has confirmed his move to Real Madrid in the summer, was replaced in the 65th minute after being unable to increase his tally of 21 goals for the season.

    “We have to get used to not playing with Kylian, sooner or later, it’s going to happen,” Enrique said.

    “When I consider it appropriate, he will play or not play, as all coaches do with their players.

    “I want maximum competitiveness for next season. I want every starting player in this PSG team to think that this is a great opportunity. That’s what I’m looking for this season and next season.”

    Goncalo Ramos secured a vital point for the Ligue 1 frontrunners with a stoppage-time penalty, levelling the score after Amine Gouiri’s first-half goal had given Rennes the lead.

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) remains undefeated in their last 18 league matches and currently holds an 11-point advantage at the summit, amassing 54 points from 23 games.

    Meanwhile, Rennes sits in seventh place in the league standings.

  • He “didn’t tell me anything so far” – Luis Enrique on news surrounding Mbappe’s decision

    He “didn’t tell me anything so far” – Luis Enrique on news surrounding Mbappe’s decision

    Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has stated that he is unaware of any decision-making process regarding winger Kylian Mbappe’s future at the club.

    Although Mbappe can engage in pre-contract negotiations with any club as his PSG contract nears its final six months, he has opted to postpone such decisions until the conclusion of the Ligue 1 season.

    Despite reports in the Spanish media suggesting that the 25-year-old is leaning towards not extending his stay at the club, he has yet to finalise his next destination.

    Notably, Mbappe risks forfeiting an €80 million loyalty bonus if he chooses to leave PSG for free, following a settlement agreement reached in the summer amid previous uncertainties about his departure.

    Enrique denies speaking to Mbappe
    Head coach Luis Enrique, speaking during his press conference ahead of tomorrow’s league game against RC Strasbourg, was asked if he knew the news surrounding the player.

    “Kylian didn’t tell me anything so far,” he said.


    The ongoing transfer saga involving Mbappe, Real Madrid, and PSG has extended for two years. Despite multiple instances where it seemed the France captain would depart, he chose to stay each time.

    However, the speculation is set to come to a conclusion in the upcoming transfer window. Adding to the anticipation, the Spanish giants heightened fan suspense by releasing a 20-second video on their social media channels, hinting at a significant announcement scheduled for tomorrow, February 2, 2024.

  • David Raya says he wouldn’t give up ‘goal-keeping’ for anything in the world’

    David Raya says he wouldn’t give up ‘goal-keeping’ for anything in the world’

    Spain manager Luis de la Fuente selected 28-year-old David Raya to start against Cyprus, marking a shift from his previous role as a substitute since being called up by Luis Enrique in March 2022.

    Raya has become a consistent presence in the national team, making his debut goal for Spain in March 2022 in a memorable match against Albania held at the RCD Espanyol stadium in Barcelona.

    The friendly, which Spain won energetically, saw a packed stadium saluting Raya with full honours.

    Known as a self-made goalkeeper, Raya is recognized for his relentless work ethic and chose his position inspired by the resources available at home.

    “When I was four or five years old, I started as a goalkeeper. My middle brother was a winger and I had to play goalkeeper at home and I liked it. My parents signed me up for the village team and that’s where I have my first memories of playing in the garden at home and then on the village team,” he explains nostalgically.

    At 28, Raya has made a name for himself in England, now at Arsenal after seasons at Blackburn, Southport and Brentford, with whom he made his Premier League debut.

    David Raya is in action for Arsenal
    He is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the top flight, and it is no coincidence that that is how specialists describe him.

    “I left the country when I was very young, just 16 years old, and I had to work hard to get to where I am now. You value a lot of things, like when I left to play in the fifth division at 18 to 19 years old.

    “It’s very different from professional football or training and from the facilities I was used to at Blackburn. They taught me a lot of things there and it helps you appreciate what you have. I wouldn’t change my career for the world.”

  • “Perfect” Zaire-Emery already exciting PSG’s Luis Enrique

    “Perfect” Zaire-Emery already exciting PSG’s Luis Enrique

    Paris Saint-Germain’s coach, Luis Enrique, has expressed admiration for the young midfielder, Warren Zaire-Emery.

    Zaire-Emery was part of the starting lineup for PSG in their 3-0 victory over AC Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. So far this season, he has contributed to five goals in 11 appearances across all competitions for the team.

    Although there have been recent speculations linking the midfielder with Manchester City, considering his contract runs until 2025, his impressive performances have spurred PSG’s eagerness to secure a contract extension.

    Asked about Zaire-Emery, Luis Enrique said in his post-game news conference, “Is he ready to play for the national team? That is [France coach Didier] Deschamps’ job, not mine.

    “He is surprising at 17. He does everything well. He can score; you will see that he will score goals.

    “He can also assist. He is the perfect example for all young players who want to be footballers from PSG’s academy; that is what Zaire-Emery is. I’m very pleased with his level.”

  • Marco Verratti’s exit from PSG fueled by Luis Enrique’s disapproval of the players’ lifestyle choices

    Luis Enrique reportedly raised concerns about Marco Verratti’s lifestyle, leading to the decision to exclude the Italian midfielder from the Paris Saint-Germain squad.

    During the summer, both PSG’s manager and sporting director, Luis Campos, reportedly conveyed to Verratti that he was not part of their future plans and was welcome to seek a transfer from the club.

    “Though Luis Enrique liked the Italian midfielder’s playing style, it was his lifestyle that the manager was not particularly a fan of. Luis Enrique had even told the player “You are the prototype of the player I hate”, according to Le Parisien.


    Following his exclusion from the PSG squad, Verratti has made the decision to depart the club after 11 years, making his way to Qatar to join Al-Arabi.

    It has been reported that the Ligue 1 champions received a fee of €45 million from the Qatari club for the midfielder.

    PSG is now fully prepared to face Newcastle United in the Champions League on Wednesday.

  • Neymar compromise salary for return to Barca after ex club reaches agreement with PSG

    Neymar compromise salary for return to Barca after ex club reaches agreement with PSG

    After a meeting with new manager Luis Enrique prior to the start of the Ligue 1 season, PSG communicated to the 31-year-old forward that he does not feature in their plans for this season.

    Neymar’s potential return to his former team, Barcelona, has gained significant attention, as the club has reached a comprehensive agreement to bring back their former player. The expected deal entails Neymar signing a 3-year contract with the La Liga club.

    As reported by Football Transfers, Barcelona had been awaiting the completion of a German investment firm’s acquisition of a 16 percent buyout of Barca Studios for €60 million. This step is crucial to releasing funds to finalise the Brazilian’s transfer.

    Neymar has demonstrated his commitment to facilitate the move by agreeing to a reduction in his salary. As a result, the 31-year-old is projected to receive an annual wage of €13 million at the Spanish club.

    In line with reports from the Daily Star, Neymar seems poised to follow in Lionel Messi’s footsteps by leaving Paris Saint-Germain. This decision comes after Neymar was informed during crucial discussions with new manager Luis Enrique that he does not feature in the team’s future plans.

    Manager Luis Enrique, along with sporting director Luis Campos, conveyed a similar message to five players, including Neymar. This group of players has been informed that they are not part of the club’s strategic vision for the long term.

    In addition to Neymar, the players affected by this decision include Marco Verratti, Hugo Ekitike, Juan Bernat, and Renato Sanches.

    During these talks, they were informed that their presence is not required as the Ligue 1 champions continue their efforts to restructure the team after failing to secure victory in the UEFA Champions League.

    Barca’s hierarchy approves Neymar’s return


    Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Neymar appears to be on a quest to find an immediate solution for his future after PSG’s hierarchy informed the forward that he was not going to be a part of Luis Enrique’s plans this season.


    The Brazilian forward has consistently remained a subject of controversy and was named among the list of potential replacements Barcelona could explore following the imminent departure of Ousmane Dembele.

    Joan Laporta’s decision to shift attention to the former star, who departed the club in the most controversial of circumstances, has not gone down well with many at the club, with head coach Xavi Hernandez spearheading the group of those who are dissatisfied.

  • Club remains a priority – Luis Enrique sends warning to Kylian Mbappe ahead of Ligue 1 opener

    Club remains a priority – Luis Enrique sends warning to Kylian Mbappe ahead of Ligue 1 opener

    Kylian Mbappe is poised to remain sidelined ahead of PSG’s Ligue 1 opener against Lorient, as Luis Enrique stressed the prioritisation of the “club above all else.”


    The French striker has been forced to train separately from Enrique’s first-team group along with Julien Draxler, Gini Wijnaldum, and Leandro Paredes.


    Now that the Spanish manager has all but confirmed that Mbappe will not be featuring in PSG’s Ligue 1 opener against Lorient, he hopes that the 2018 World Cup winner will find an amicable solution so that he gets to play again at Parc des Princes.


    “I hope and wish that, just like in the past [last summer], the same thing will happen again, and that the club and the player can reach an agreement.


    ” That’s what I would like. The philosophy of this club is very clear: that the club is above everything, and I share it 100 percent,” he told reporters.


    There are reports indicating that PSG has communicated to high-profile players such as Brazilian sensation Neymar, Marco Verratti, Hugo Ekitike, Juan Bernat, and Renato Sanches that they are considered surplus to the team’s needs and are welcome to explore new opportunities.

    Nevertheless, Enrique refrained from divulging the details of his discussion with the players and emphasised that his actions should serve as a more significant communication.

    “Conversations with players are private. I will not talk about what they have said and what I have said. My words say something, but my actions say more, and the actions that I take will show my ideas,” he said.


    Mbappe remains adamant about running down his contract and has told the club he will not be leaving to join Real Madrid or anyone else this summer. It now remains to be seen if the impasse is resolved or if he makes the long-cherished move to Real Madrid in the final days of the transfer window.

  • PSG captain Marquinhos hopes Mbappe ‘would be with us and help us this season’

    PSG captain Marquinhos hopes Mbappe ‘would be with us and help us this season’

    On Sunday, Paris Saint-Germain’s captain, Marquinhos (29), expressed his desire for the club to resolve the disagreement with Kylian Mbappe (24) and eagerly anticipate the return of the French superstar to the squad for the upcoming season.

    As a result of the ongoing contract dispute, Mbappe was excluded from the French champions’ pre-season tour of Japan and South Korea, with a squad of 29 players.

    “He is an exceptional player but it is a decision that was taken over our heads, by the management,” Marquinhos told reporters in the Japanese city of Osaka.

    He admitted it was a “delicate” subject.

    “Even in Japan you are here with your questions,” he complained, although new coach Luis Enrique, sitting alongside the Brazilian, escaped without being asked about Mbappe.

    “We always want to have top players with us and I hope a decision will be taken to allow him to be with us and help us this season,” Marquinhos added.

    Mbappe has said he will not extend his existing deal with the Qatar-owned club, which expires next year, and PSG therefore decided not to take him on the trip east.

    He has said he wants to remain in Paris for one more year, but PSG say they would prefer to sell him in this transfer window rather than seeing him depart as a free agent in 2024.

  • Luis Enrique plays ‘professionalism cards’ about Mbappe’s exit as he takes new role

    Luis Enrique plays ‘professionalism cards’ about Mbappe’s exit as he takes new role

    Luis Enrique has been officially announced as the new head coach of Paris Saint-Germain, signing a two-year contract following the departure of Christophe Galtier.

    The 53-year-old previously stepped down as the manager of the Spanish national team after their elimination in the World Cup last-16 match against Morocco in December.

    This appointment marks his return to club management since leaving Barcelona in 2017.

    During his tenure at Barcelona, which spanned three seasons, Luis Enrique achieved significant success, including winning the Champions League once, LaLiga twice, and the Copa del Rey three times.

    Speaking upon his unveiling, he expressed his delight at joining Paris Saint-Germain and his anticipation for the new experience ahead.

    “It’s so exciting to meet new people, to live in this city, to learn a new language and, above all, to manage PSG.

    “I want to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me. It took us very little time to talk about what we could do here with the project.”

    He takes over during an uncertain period for PSG, despite the club finishing top of Ligue 1 for the ninth time in 11 seasons in May.

    Lionel Messi has left the French champions for Inter Miami, while the futures of Kylian Mbappe and Neymar are uncertain.

    Mbappe has informed the club that he intends to leave when his contract finishes next summer but Luis Enrique is philosophical about the situation.

    He said: “A lot of things can happen. I will keep it private as it’s professional secrecy. 

    “I cannot give confidences but we will try to make the best possible squad for PSG.”

    The club’s chairman, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, said of Luis Enrique’s appointment: “It will be a new way of playing, a new style.

    “We have one of the best coaches in the world. Not just because of what he has done but because of the way he plays football. We want this club to play the best attacking style of football in the world.”

  • PSG announces Luis Enrique as new coach

    PSG announces Luis Enrique as new coach

    French champions, Paris Saint-Germain, have announced the appointment of former Barcelona and Spain coach Luis Enrique as their new coach.

    The 53-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the club. Luis Enrique had been without a team since his dismissal as the coach of the Spanish national team in December of last year.

    He takes over from Christophe Galtier, whose departure from PSG was confirmed earlier on the same day.

    Luis Enrique was officially presented by PSG at a press conference held at their state-of-the-art training facility in Poissy, located in the north-west of Paris.

    The club’s president, Nasser al-Khelaifi, was also present during the unveiling.

    “I’m delighted to be joining Paris in order to enjoy a new experience,” Luis Enrique said in a club statement.

    “It’s so exciting to meet new people, to live in this city, to learn a new language and, above all, to manage PSG.”

    The new coach, whose full name is Luis Enrique Martinez Garcia, is the eighth man to lead the club since the transformative Qatari takeover of 2011 and, like those before him, will be charged with bringing them the success in the Champions League that has so far proved elusive.

    PSG have never won Europe’s most prestigious club competition, coming closest when they lost in the final to Bayern Munich in 2020.

    They have gone out in the last 16 in five of the last seven seasons, losing to Bayern at that stage in the campaign just finished. That defeat proved costly for Galtier.

    Luis Enrique arrives with pedigree in the Champions League, having won it as coach of Barcelona in 2015 when a brilliant team led by an attack of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez beat Juventus in the final.

    He now joins a club beginning their latest rebuild following the departure of Messi at the end of his two-year stay.

    Mbappe future in doubt

    There are doubts surrounding the future of superstar forward Kylian Mbappe after he told the club he would not renew a contract that expires next year.

    Several high-profile new signings are expected to be confirmed as the club prepares to start pre-season training in the coming days, with a tour to Japan scheduled for later this month.

    Luis Enrique brought to an end a three-year stay at Barca in 2017 and then became Spain coach in 2018.

    However, he quit in June 2019 and announced the death of his nine-year-old daughter from bone cancer two months later.

    He returned to the Spain post in November of that year, retaking the reins from Robert Moreno, and took La Roja to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and the 2021 UEFA Nations League final before being fired after their elimination from last year’s World Cup in the last 16 in a penalty shoot-out against Morocco.

    Galtier had only been in charge for one season and still had a year to run on his contract, but his departure had been expected ever since the end of the last Ligue 1 season a month ago.

    “Paris Saint-Germain and Christophe Galtier have decided to terminate his contract as coach of the first team,” the club said in a statement.

    “Everyone at Paris Saint-Germain thanks Christophe Galtier, as well as his assistants Thierry Oleksiak and Joao Sacramento, for their professionalism and commitment over the course of the season, and wishes them the best in their future careers.”

    Galtier led PSG to a French record 11th title but that success was also overshadowed by their disappointing exit from the Champions League and a French Cup last-16 loss to Marseille.

    The final weeks of Galtier’s reign were also marred by accusations that he made racist remarks about players during his previous job at Nice.

    He has vehemently denied the accusations but will stand trial in December on charges of “moral harassment and discrimination on the grounds of actual or supposed membership or non-membership of a particular ethnic group, nation, alleged race or religion”, according to prosecutors in Nice.

    The offences are punishable by three years’ imprisonment and a 45,000-euro ($49,000) fine.

  • PSG fires Christophe Galtier ahead of Luis Enrique’s announcement as new coach

    PSG fires Christophe Galtier ahead of Luis Enrique’s announcement as new coach

    Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has officially parted ways with Christophe Galtier, terminating the manager’s contract at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.

    Despite leading PSG to a league title in the previous season, the French coach fell short in the UEFA Champions League, as the team was eliminated by Bayern Munich in the round of 16.

    Galtier, who previously managed clubs such as Nice, Lille, and Saint-Etienne, joined PSG last summer.

    However, reports indicate that he is set to be replaced by former Spain and FC Barcelona manager Luis Enrique.

    The termination of Galtier’s contract is viewed as a necessary step before the announcement of Luis Enrique as the new head coach for PSG, according to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano.

    Galtier’s departure adds to a series of high-profile exits from PSG, including Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos.

    Galtier’s stint as PSG coach

    According to TransferMarkt, Galtier assumed the role of manager at the club on July 5, 2022 on a two-year deal which would have expired on June 30, 2024.

    However, his team’s disappointing performance in the latter part of the season seems to have been the final straw.

    Nevertheless, during his tenure, Galtier led the team from the dugout in 50 matches, securing 34 victories, 6 draws, and suffering 10 defeats.

    Under his guidance, PSG scored 120 goals and conceded 53, averaging 2.21 points per game. He achieved success with the team by winning the French Super Cup and clinching the Ligue 1 title.

    Galtier arrested over racism allegations

    Adding to the Frenchman’s misery, Galtier was also detained in France in connection with an inquiry into claims of discrimination at OGC Nice.

  • Enrique wants a job in the Premier League, but a move to Spurs is unlikely

    Enrique wants a job in the Premier League, but a move to Spurs is unlikely

    Luis Enrique, a former coach for Spain and Barcelona, wants to work in England but appears to have ruled out taking over for Antonio Conte at Tottenham.

    After La Roja was eliminated by Morocco in the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup, Enrique cut ties with Spain.

    Luis de la Fuente, who was promoted from the Under-21s, took his place, leaving Enrique back on the market.

    Since then, there have been numerous references to high-profile positions, but Spurs, who fired Conte on Sunday after a week of persistent rumours that his time with the team was up, are the team he seems to have been most associated with.

    During his first significant interview of the year, Enrique was not specifically asked about the Spurs, but he did express a desire to  work in the Premier League.

    But the fact he does not expect to be working in England even as early as July suggests the Spurs job would be a non-starter.

    “I would like to go to England to work,” he told Radio SER Gijon.

    “But I don’t see myself in the Premier League in July because I would like to go to a team there that can do important things, and that is very difficult.

    “I would not go to [just] any Premier League team.”

    The 52-year-old has also been among the big names linked with the Brazil job, which Tite vacated following the Selecao’s unsuccessful Qatar 2022 campaign.

    The coach confirmed he has received offers from national teams — Brazil not being one of them — but he seems less interested in returning to the international stage as things stand.

    “I don’t see myself coaching Brazil,” he continued. “Another coach profile fits in there better than mine.

    “They haven’t called me. I don’t know if my style fits the best with Brazil.

    “I have had offers from national teams, but not from clubs. It would have to be a very important [national] team to take it, although it would be very difficult for me to face Spain. I don’t know if I would be ready.”

  • Joselu enjoys a memorable Spain debut

    Joselu enjoys a memorable Spain debut

    After helping Spain defeat Norway 3-0 in Malaga on Saturday, Joselu was in a state of dreamland after scoring twice on his country’s debut.

    In his first match as head coach after succeeding Luis Enrique, Luis de la Fuente selected a team that was somewhat unfamiliar for their first two Euro 2024 qualifiers.

    Many believed Joselu’s call-up was overdue because he had double digit LaLiga goal totals in each of the previous three seasons.

    When he entered the game at La Rosaleda in the second half, Spain was struggling to win 1-0 and he scored twice to end the match.

    As such, he became the oldest debutant to score for Spain since September 2006, two days before his 33rd birthday, and he was left in disbelief.

    “The truth is that I still don’t believe it,” he told TVE. “This is everything a player can have and in the end, the daily work has had its reward.

    “I think I would especially like to thank my wife and my children, and my mother, who have come here today.

    “The truth is that I am not believing it.”

    Joselu was also Spain’s oldest debutant since 2006, with De la Fuente opting to pick a few somewhat unfashionable options who were largely neglected by his predecessor.

    The striker subsequently paid tribute to De la Fuente for giving him the opportunity.

    “I thank him for everything, being here, trusting me, being on the first list,” he said.

    “I think I have responded more than enough.

    “Age doesn’t matter to me because I feel like a kid, I feel like an 18-year-old kid. I want to enjoy this; I want to hug my family because today is an incredible day.”

    Joselu may feel he has done enough to earn a maiden start next time out, when Spain are set to face Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

    “Knowing the players and giving them confidence is our job, but all the credit belongs to him,” De la Fuente said of Joselu. 

    “We have recognised the great work he does every day at his club and I am happy for him and for everyone else.”

  • Top managers currently searching for work

    Several under-pressure managers will be nervously scanning the pool of freely available coaching talent waiting to replace them as domestic football is poised to resume next week.

    The international game follows suit, with federations determining if they require a personnel change following the World Cup.

    There are some well-known figures out there who are awaiting a call from a potential employer who might convince them to return to management.

    We have looked at some of the top talent that is now unemployed in light of the plethora of new appointments that are anticipated in the upcoming months.

    Luis Enrique

    Luis Enrique, who left Spain following their elimination from the World Cup, is one of the most recent managers to find himself hunting for work.

    It was unexpected to see La Roja ousted by Morocco in the round of 16 in Qatar after Luis Enrique had led his team to the semifinals of both the 2020 European Championship and the 2020–21 Nations League.

    Even yet, Luis Enrique’s time as the head of state of his country was seen as a success, especially considering the lack of talent in the country at the time.

    Before retiring in 2017, the 52-year-old Barcelona employee won two LaLiga championships and the Champions League. He now appears keen to get back into club administration.

    When quizzed about his future plans, the Asturian said: “I see myself joining a club and developing a squad with greater finesse and precision than I had time to do with the national team.”

    Thomas Tuchel

    Thomas Tuchel is available for work
    Thomas Tuchel is available for work

    A manager that could be heading from club management to the international stage is Thomas Tuchel.

    Should Gareth Southgate choose to resign as England’s coach, the former Chelsea manager has been proposed as a replacement.

    The Champions League, Super Cup, and Club World Cup were all won by Tuchel when he was at Stamford Bridge. He also made it to three domestic cup finals until being fired by Chelsea earlier this season.

    He also led Paris Saint-Germain to two Ligue 1 championships and Borussia Dortmund to a DFB-Pokal success during his time there.

    A major club will inevitably approach England if Tuchel is not chosen as their next manager in a short period of time.

    Mauricio Pochettino

    Another coach linked as a possible replacement for Southgate is Mauricio Pochettino.

    With Harry Kane having suffered the disappointment of missing a vital penalty in England’s 2-1 quarter-final defeat to France at the World Cup, his former Spurs boss could be seen as the perfect appointment should Southgate depart.

    Under Pochettino, Tottenham became top-four regulars in the Premier League and were Champions League finalists.

    Yet the Argentine received criticism for failing to land a trophy with the North Londoners and a solitary Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France victory was seen as a disappointing return during his spell at PSG, before being sacked last summer.

    Now waiting for his next opportunity, what Pochettino does have in his favour is a reputation for playing attractive, adventurous football and building a strong relationship with players.

    Marcelo Bielsa

    Marcelo Bielsa's last role was in charge of Leeds
    Marcelo Bielsa’s last role was in charge of Leeds

    Pochettino’s mentor Marcelo Bielsa is also waiting for his next managerial role to materialise.

    Bielsa’s last position saw him take Leeds from the Championship into the Premier League, where the West Yorkshire club managed a ninth-placed finish in 2020-21.

    A poor start to last season amid a number of injuries to key players, resulted in the Argentine being sacked from a job that had given him his longest reign as a club manager.

    Now 67, Bielsa held talks over a Premier League return at Bournemouth earlier this year, while he has also been linked as a replacement should Frank Lampard be dismissed by Everton.

    Another option is for the former Argentina and Chile boss to make a return to the international stage, with Uruguay said to be considering him as a successor to Diego Alonso.

    Zinedine Zidane

    Zinedine Zidane could be the next France manager
    Zinedine Zidane could be the next France manager

    An international job is also said to interest Zinedine Zidane, who has been tipped to become the next manager of France.

    Prior to this World Cup, Les Bleus were in poor form and there was a lot of speculation regarding Zidane succeeding his former team-mate Didier Deschamps as coach.

    Four years after winning the World Cup in Russia, Deschamps has guided his country to the final once more. It could now be up to Deschamps as to whether he continues as national coach or not.

    That could leave Zidane in limbo, with no natural fit at club level seemingly available in the short-term.

    Zidane has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. With two LaLiga titles and three Champions Leagues on his resume as a manager, it seems only a matter of time before he takes on his next challenge.

     

  • World Cup 2022: Spain boss Luis Enrique exist role after last-16 exit

    Luis Enrique resigned as manager of the team, following Spain’s shocking World Cup loss to Morocco in the World Cup’s last-16.

    The 52-year-old took over in 2018 and led Spain to the semifinals of Euro 2020.

    The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said a “new project” should start but did not put a time frame on when a new boss would be announced.

    “We would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff,” the RFEF said in a statement.

    The former Spain midfielder stepped away from his role for a short period in 2019 because his late daughter had been diagnosed with bone cancer, before returning for the side’s impressive Euros run in the tournament that was delayed by a year because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Spain were knocked out of the Euros by eventual champions Italy after their semi-final went to a penalty shootout.

    They thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 in their opening group game of the World Cup but their possession-based game saw them accused of being “boring” as they drew 1-1 with Germany and lost 2-1 to Japan.

    On Tuesday, Spain were held to a goalless draw by Morocco before again losing a penalty shootout as they were knocked out.

  • Luis Enrique receives tributes from Azpilicueta, others after Spain exit    

    Following Luis Enrique‘s resignation as head coach on Thursday, a number of Spain players paid tribute to him.

    Luis Enrique lost his job as a result of Spain’s shocking elimination from the World Cup round of 16 by Morocco on Tuesday.

    As his contract was slated to expire at the conclusion of the competition, the Royal Football Federation said on Thursday that it would not be extending it. Later, it was reported that Luis de la Fuente, who had previously been in charge of Spain’s Under-21 team, would take over.

    After the announcement, Luis Enrique’s former players thanked him, with Cesar Azpilicueta posting his congratulations on social media.

    “We had all imagined another ending after months of work, passion, dedication and commitment,” Azpilicueta posted on Instagram.

    “Thank you very much for the trust, Luis Enrique, and all the coaching staff I wish you the best in the future.”

    Luis Enrique gave Gavi his Spain debut last year, making him the youngest player in the history of La Roja at just 17 years and 62 days old.

    “I wish you luck and success in the future, you gave everything for the team and we will always be grateful to you!”

    Pedri also enjoyed his maiden international outing under the stewardship of Luis Enrique and is one of the young stars that look to have given Spain a promising future, despite the disappointment in Qatar.

    “Thank you very much for everything, Luis,” Pedri added on Instagram. “For your trust and support from the very beginning, and for always believing in and caring for this group.

    “We haven’t gotten where we wanted in this World Cup, but I’m sure the future will bring you new successes.”

  • De la Fuente now Spain manager after Luis Enrique exit

    Luis de la Fuente has been named the new manager of Spain, taking over for Luis Enrique, who was fired earlier today.

    After a shocking penalty shootout loss to Morocco in Qatar on Tuesday, La Roja was eliminated from the World Cup.

    After 120 minutes of goalless play, the 2010 champions failed to score on any of their penalty kicks.

    The unexpected outcome was preceded by a group stage campaign marked by a 7-0 win over Costa Rica, a 1-1 tie with Germany, and a 2-1 loss to Japan that left them finishing second in Group E.

    A statement from the Royal Football Federation (RFEF) read: “The RFEF would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff at the helm of the national team in recent years.

    “The sports management of the RFEF has transferred to the president a report in which it is determined that a new project should start for the Spanish soccer team.

    “The aim is to continue with the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique and his collaborators.

    “Both the president, Luis Rubiales, and the sports director, Jose Francisco Molina, have transmitted the decision to the coach.

    “The RFEF has chosen Luis de la Fuente as the new national coach.”

    When Spain’s Euro 2024 qualifying schedule gets underway in March of next year with games against Scotland and Norway, De la Fuente’s first game in command will be then.

    A new era

    Luis de la Fuente coached Spain to victory in a friendly against Lithuania in June 2021
    Luis de la Fuente coached Spain to victory in a friendly against Lithuania in June 2021

    De la Fuente, 61, has been promoted from his previous role as Under-21s boss. guiding the young side to European Championship glory in 2019.

    In addition, he helped Spain win a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics despite losing to Brazil in overtime.

    During Luis Enrique’s isolation due to coronavirus procedures in June 2021, the former Athletic Bilbao left-back took leadership of the senior team for a friendly against Lithuania as a part of the Euro 2020 warm-up.

    He won the Copa del Rey and LaLiga titles twice with Athletic as a player in 1984.

    Spain’s penalty pain

    Luis Enrique failed to help Spain progress past the World Cup last-16 stage
    Luis Enrique failed to help Spain progress past the World Cup last-16 stage

    RFEF’s decision brings to an end Luis Enrique’s tenure after a promising but altogether disappointing time in charge of his country.

    The 52-year-old first took the role in July 2018 but stepped down the following July due to personal reasons.

    When he took control again in November 2019, he oversaw Spain’s progression to the Euro 2020 semifinals, where they were defeated by eventual champions Italy on penalties.

    Between 1991 and 2002, the former midfielder for Real Madrid and Barcelona amassed 62 caps for his country.

    He left the Camp Nou in May 2014 and went on to win nine titles, including a treble in his first season in Catalonia, after stints in the Roma and Celta Vigo dugouts.

  • Luis Enrique no longer Spain manager after World Cup last-16 exit

    Following Spain’s shocking World Cup elimination against Morocco, Luis Enrique has resigned from his position as manager.

    The 52-year-old took over in 2018 and led Spain to the Euro 2020 semifinals.

    The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) said a “new initiative” should begin but did not specify when a new manager would be named.

    “We would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff,” the RFEF said in a statement.

    The former Spain midfielder took a brief leave of absence from his position in 2019 due to the diagnosis of bone cancer in his late daughter before returning for the team’s great performance at the Euros in the competition that was postponed by a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

    The eventual champions Italy eliminated Spain from the Euros after their semifinal match ended in a penalty shootout.

    They defeated Costa Rica 7-0 in their opening World Cup group match, but after drawing 1-1 with Germany and losing 2-1 to Japan, they were criticized for playing a “boring” possession-based style of football.

    Spain was held to a scoreless draw by Morocco on Tuesday before losing once more in a penalty shootout and being eliminated.

  • Luis Enrique refuses to focus on the negatives ahead of Morocco meeting

    Coach Luis Enrique of Spain is choosing not to dwell on the shortcomings of his team’s defeat to Japan and is instead emphasizing how brilliantly La Roja performed throughout their World Cup group stage matches.

    Japan defeated Spain 2-1 on Thursday to win Group E, sending Germany home early and securing a matchup with Croatia in the round of 16.

    In comparison to Japan’s 228 passes, Spain attempted 1,058 passes, had 82.3% of the possession, and had 12 shots—five of which found the target.

    However, Japan’s six attempts totaled out to a combined anticipated goals (xG) of 1.45, with Ritsu Doan and Junya Ito scoring in the span of three second-half minutes, compared to Spain’s 1.04 total.

    If media allegations in Spain are to be accepted, Luis Enrique, a former coach of Barcelona, may not remain in charge of Spain after the World Cup, but he is fully confident in his strategy going into Tuesday’s match with Morocco.

    “We are talking about 270 minutes if I’m not wrong, plus added time [in the group stage],” Luis Enrique said in a press conference when he was asked if his team failed to recover from setbacks during matches.

    “Out of 300 minutes in total, you focus on 10 minutes that you didn’t like. As far as we progress, you will see more of these minutes.

    “We are footballers and the opponents also play. There are things to be improved, and I’m sure we will be bitten by Morocco in some moments of the game.

    “We can’t take blows? What about them? Did Germany take it well when we scored? We are in a competition where the score dictates the risk you are willing to take.

    “Other teams pull back but we keep attacking and of course we need to improve that.”

    Asked if his team lacked the experience required to see out spells of pressure, Luis Enrique replied: “It’s such a cliche, we have to try and get rid of this idea.

    “I don’t believe they lacked experience. Experience in what? Being builders, carpenters? When you lose, people talk about issues and if you win, they don’t.

    “I don’t share this analysis. This team will be recognised by the way we play, analyse our matches, our philosophy but not these sorts of issues.

    “Mistakes happen, we are talking about a very complex, unfair sport, 11 players on a huge field, it’s impossible to control all the aspects.

    “At the end of the day the ones making the decisions are the players, I want them to implement my idea and I want them to buy the whole package when they lose, it’s not fair to only buy it when we win.”

    Spain have only made it beyond the round of 16 once at the last four World Cups, when they went on to win the trophy in South Africa in 2010. This record, though, is of no concern to Luis Enrique.

    “This is not our usual trend, to look at everything from a negative perspective,” he said.

    “I am not concerned about those results. I want to control the things I can control as a coach. I want my team to play in a certain way, I want my players to forget about the result.

    “Football is not fair but if you have more merit you usually win the game. I am convinced we will have more merit than Morocco. Our objective was to play seven games, so we want to play seven games.”

  • Dramatic conclusion to Group E leaves Luis Enrique on tenterhooks

    In light of Thursday’s thrilling Group E finale, Luis Enrique claims he would have “had a heart attack” if he had known Spain was momentarily on its way out of the World Cup.

    Samurai Blue defeated Spain 2-1 at the Khalifa International Stadium, with Japan rallying from a deficit after Alvaro Morata’s early goal.

    La Roja entered the match at the top of the standings but needed a point to ensure progression without a doubt.

    Even though they failed to accomplish that, Germany’s 4-2 victory over Costa Rica in another match meant Luis Enrique’s team would continue to compete, placing Die Nationalelf in second place behind Japan.

    Spain, though, entirely dropped out of the top two for a brief period while Costa Rica took the lead in Germany.

    Luis Enrique stated that he was ignorant and that he was appreciative of his ignorance.

    “We were knocked out for three minutes? Why do you say this? I was not paying attention,” Luis Enrique said with a look of bemusement. “When did that happen?

    “Okay, fantastic. I didn’t know this. Why? Because I was paying attention to my match. If I’d have found out, I’d have had a heart-attack.”

    Of course, the defeat ultimately cost Spain little because many will argue their immediate path in the knockout stages is now kinder than it would have been if they won the group.

    Topping Group E would have put them on track to face Croatia next and potentially Brazil in the quarter-finals.

    Finishing as runners-up means they are now likely to come up against Portugal in the last eight, assuming La Roja get beyond Morocco.

    Avoid talking about manipulating results. Prior to this game, Brazil dominated the news cycle, but Luis Enrique was not in the mood to celebrate advancement given how close Spain came to packing their bags.

    “In football there are no good or bad sides,” he added. “In football you deserve or not and today I’m not happy at all.

    “Yes, we qualified, I’d have liked to be top by winning this game, but this was not possible because in five minutes they got two goals, and in 10 minutes we were completely out.

    “We were dismantled. We tried to close the game, but it wasn’t possible. But we didn’t have any danger in the first half, then in the second… I told them in half-time [Japan] will push us, they had nothing to lose.

    “We didn’t have good game management, we collapsed. I’m not happy, I never celebrate defeats.

    “I have nothing to celebrate. Of course, the bracket changes and many things are different, but I have nothing to celebrate.”

    Japan’s winning goal by Ao Tanaka was somewhat controversial in nature, as replays showed the ball was agonisingly close to going out of play before Kaoru Mitoma’s cut-back to the match-winner.

    Luis Enrique was shown an image of the situation and was left concluding it to be fake.

    “I saw the images, they must be wrong or fabricated,” he said. “I saw an image and said that can’t be true.

    “I have nothing else to say. I have full respect. I knew something going on as VAR took so long.”

  • Luis Enrique prepared should Spain end up facing Brazil

    Luis Enrique insists that Spain won’t take any dangers by attempting to orchestrate a certain outcome against Japan in order to avoid playing Brazil in the World Cup quarterfinals.

    La Roja takes on Samurai Blue on Thursday knowing that a win will guarantee the group’s top rank and set up a matchup with the Group F runners-up in the round of 16.

    However, it would also put them in position to face the Selecao in the round of eight.

    Attempting to avoid Brazil has been a hot issue throughout Spain’s recent media appearances, and Luis Enrique even acknowledged talking about it with his team.

    “Great question, we’ve wondered about this and reflected on it. From a professional point of view, we are only thinking of winning because the four teams can qualify,” he said.

    “We want to be first, we cannot and should not speculate. It’s very human to talk about it, we have done it, but it’s useless to choose.

    “Imagine, we reach minute 95, we are drawing 0-0, we are winners of the group. But then just before full-time, Costa Rica and Japan score. You’ve speculated the entire game and then in the last 15 seconds you concede. That’s it, you’re out.

    “If you’re convinced your team is a good one [you try to win]. We’re here to win seven games.

    “Your theory is Brazil [in the quarter-finals]. Let’s play Brazil. We can’t start with these estimations.

    “We try to put up a fight – it doesn’t matter who we’re playing in the round of 16 or quarter-finals.

    “If we play Brazil in the quarters, well so be it… We must beat Japan – elite sport and speculation don’t compute, or we don’t understand it that way. Being first would mean that we have been better.

    “To win a World Cup you have to win against everyone who comes your way. That’s our goal.”

    In fact, Luis Enrique continued by saying he would enjoy playing Brazil in the quarterfinals, even if it meant La Roja had a more difficult path to the championship game.

    “I hope to play against Brazil. It will mean that we have both reached the quarter-finals,” he continued.

    “Brazil is always a clear favourite [for the World Cup], regardless of the year. They have so much talent and quality, both individually and collectively.

    “As for everyone else [the favourites], there aren’t big surprises. I always stick to the FIFA rankings, you can see which are the favourites. You look at the top 10, some aren’t here but generally those are the favourites. Brazil, France won [their groups] easily, so there’s no surprises.”

    Spain have generally impressed across their first two games with their vibrant and attack-minded style of play, with many considering them early favourites despite possessing one of the youngest squads.

    But one of their young talents who is yet to make an appearance is Ansu Fati, who some felt was fortunate to even be named in the squad after only playing bit-part role for Barcelona this season on his return from injury.

    Luis Enrique acknowledged Fati was the most uncertain selection in the group, but he stressed he was thrilled with the training level of all of his forwards.

    “He was the last player to enter the list. He wasn’t even in the squad in the previous two international breaks. It might be the position where I had the most doubts, regarding bringing Ansu or another player.

    “I have to base my decisions on training. We have eight forwards training so well, I am delighted with them, they are flying. It’s a shame they’ve not all had minutes, they all deserve to play and it hurts me, but there’s no space for everyone – some will not play.

    “There’s five substitutes allowed, and some players will end the competition without playing a minute. I’m sorry about that, so sorry, but they have to keep training at a top level and I make decisions based on what I see. I am sorry, but also happy with what I see from those eight players.”

  • ‘I don’t mind players having sex the night before matches but I draw the line at orgies’ – Spain coach Luis Enrique says

    Spain manager Luis Enrique has admitted that he doesn’t have a problem with players having sex the night before matches.

    The former Barcelona coach made the statement while speaking on Twitch, fulfilling his promise to fans to keep streaming for as long as Spain is in the World Cup.

     

    When he was also asked if players should be told not to have sex before games he said: ‘It’s ridiculous (to ban it). It’s something I consider totally normal.

     

    ‘If you’re at an orgy the night before a match then obviously that’s not ideal, but when I’m a club coach the players are at home the night before a game and it’s not something that worries me at all.

     

    ‘If it’s something they do then it’s because they need to and want to. But I repeat with common sense! Each one with their partner. It’s normal. When I was a player if I was at home before a game, with my wife, well we did what we had to do.’

    Enrique’s star man in his Spain squad,  Ferran Torres is currently dating his daughter and recently joked that she would ‘chop his head off if he failed to start him in a game.

     

    When asked who, in the Spain squad might be the most similar player to Enrique, the manager said: ‘That’s very easy – It’s Mr Ferran Torres – otherwise my daughter will come after me and chop off my head.’

    Later on in the stream, Enrique was asked what country he wishes he had played in, and he said: ‘England definitely. The Italian league was very strong in my era but playing in England would have helped me with my level of English and I would have been able to experience the more physical, more intense football that they have there, and experience a different culture.’

    Source: lindaikejisblog.com

  • Spain coach Luis Enrique setting sights on World Cup glory

    Luis Enrique wants his Spain side to go all the way to the World Cup final in Qatar after they cruised to a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their final warm-up match before the tournament.

    Spain’s young stars won the game, with Ansu Fati setting them on their way with a 13th-minute strike before Gavi and Nico Williams added second-half goals to make it eight wins from their last 11 matches, though Jordan did score a late consolation.

    Spain have not made it past the round of 16 at a World Cup since winning the tournament in 2010, but Luis Enrique’s sights are firmly set on the final on December 18.

    “We are seventh in the FIFA ranking,” he told reporters at his post-match press conference. “Our goal is to play seven games in Qatar.

    “I have seen the team play well [against Jordan], even if it was not the best time to play so close to the World Cup.

    “I think we have played a good game. The result was the least important today, but it’s always better to win.”

    Fati and Marco Asensio starred in the victory, and Luis Enrique was full of praise for the pair after the match.

    “It’s great news. He [Fati] has a great relationship with the goal,” the head coach added. “He [Asensio] has been at another level, excellent.

    “He has played as a false nine player, and very well. With that attitude, with the quality he has, he can play wherever.”

     

  • Enrique frustrated by ‘worst’ half of Spain reign in Switzerland defeat

    Luis Enrique believes Spain’s performance in the first half of Saturday’s defeat to Switzerland was their worst 45 minutes of his reign.

    Spain slumped to a disappointing 2-1 loss in Zaragoza that leaves them trailing Portugal by two points in Nations League Group A2 heading into the last game.

    That final group match is on Tuesday as Spain prepare to face the leaders in Braga, with Fernando Santos’ side 4-0 winners over the Czech Republic on Saturday.

    La Roja did not muster a single shot on target until Jordi Alba’s 55th-minute equaliser at La Romareda, and Luis Enrique could not hide his disappointment at the showing.

    “Losing is always something that hurts. It has been a pity, but we must value Switzerland, who from the beginning caused us many difficulties,” the coach said.

    “In the first half, it was the worst of my time as coach. [Then] we have badly defended the corner of their second goal.

    “In the second half we improved. We have tried until the end. The key game is Portugal. We will go to Braga to win.”

    The manner of Saturday’s loss clearly perturbed Luis Enrique, understandable given the World Cup starts in less than two months.

    Yet, he is refusing to blow it out of proportion, adamant he does not need to re-evaluate his faith in the squad just because of one result.

    Asked if the game generated doubts in relation to Qatar 2022, Luis Enrique replied: “No doubts.

    “Obviously it’s better to go to Qatar on a winning streak, but I have full confidence in the team. I have seen many players in the first half who have been more imprecise than ever, but the opponents are good, they know how they play.

    “But everything doesn’t always go well, when you don’t have a good day, this happens.

    “A victory against Portugal would be the perfect way to reach the World Cup. We have drawn three times with them and now we will go there to win.”

    Portugal only need a draw on Tuesday to seal their place in the Nations League Finals for the second time.

    Source: Livescore

  • Enrique ‘optimistic’ about Spain as La Roja seek to win Nations League group

    Luis Enrique is “optimistic about what lies ahead” as Spain prepare to try and win Group A2 in the Nations League.

    La Roja host Switzerland on Saturday knowing a win will secure top spot for them if Portugal lose to the Czech Republic.

    Should they not seal it this weekend, Spain will have a second chance to do so when they travel to face Portugal in their final Nations League group game on Tuesday.

    Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Luis Enrique was boosted by what he had seen in training from his squad, including first-time call-ups Borja Iglesias and Nico Williams.

    “It has been the best week of training for the players since I became a coach,” he said. “Even Borja and Nico, making their debuts.

    “I am optimistic about what lies ahead. A brutal week, even those who play little have the level to compete.”

    The former Barcelona boss was refusing to look ahead to the clash with Portugal before facing the Swiss.

    “Even losing [to Switzerland], if we beat Portugal, We’ll be through,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean we’ll speculate. The next one is the most important game.

    “The good thing about the Nations League is that all the teams have something at stake. If Switzerland don’t get more points, they will [be relegated to League B].

    “Good players can play together like [Alvaro] Morata and Borja. We will not change the way any player plays and everyone has assimilated to our way of working.”

    Luis Enrique was also asked about the situation with the Spain women’s team, with 15 players having said they do not want to play under current head coach Jorge Vilda.

    Ballon d’Or winner and Barcelona superstar Alexia Putellas effectively joined the rebellion on Friday, posting a statement from the disenchanted group.

    “It is a totally abnormal situation, and difficult to manage,” Luis Enrique said on the matter. “But I have not the slightest doubt that the [Spanish Football] Federation will manage it in the best possible way. There are many factors.”

    Source: Live score

  • Luis Enrique to return as Spain manager following daughter’s death

    Luis Enrique, whose daughter died from bone cancer in August, is returning as Spain manager five months after stepping down for personal reasons.

    Enrique resigned in June after 11 months in the job and announced in August that his nine-year-old daughter, Xana, had died.

    The 49-year-old former Barcelona boss was replaced by his assistant, Robert Moreno.

    Moreno was in charge as Spain beat Romania 5-0 on Monday.

    Read:Daughter of former Spain and Barcelona boss Luis Enrique dies

    It saw Spain wrap up qualification for Euro 2020 without losing a game.

    Moreno, who also worked under Enrique at Roma, Celta Vigo and Barcelona, said after taking the job he would “step aside” if Enrique ever wanted to return.

    At a news conference on Tuesday, Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales said: “Everyone knew that if Luis Enrique wanted to come back he had the doors open.

    “Luis Enrique will continue to the Qatar World Cup [in 2022].”

    Read:8 potential replacements for Ernesto Valverde at Barcelona

    Enrique was appointed national team boss following Spain’s exit from the 2018 World Cup in the last 16.

    He was in charge for the Nations League, where Spain failed to reach the semi-finals, and remained in place for the beginning of their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.

    The Spaniard travelled back home for personal reasons before Spain’s 2-0 victory in Malta in March and Moreno was placed in temporary charge.

    Enrique then stepped down three months later.

    Source: bbc.com