Luis Enrique Set For ‘Special’ Clash Between PSG, Real Madrid

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has described Wednesday’s Club World Cup semi-final clash against Real Madrid as a “special” occasion, while steering clear of questions about his past relationship with Kylian Mbappe, who is now set to face his former club.

“Playing against Real Madrid is always a special game,” the Spanish tactician told reporters during a press conference held at the MetLife Stadium, just outside New York, where the highly anticipated encounter will take place.

“We are delighted to be playing in a game like this because it means we have done a good job up to now.”

PSG entered the tournament in the United States on the back of their historic first UEFA Champions League title—achieved the season after Mbappe’s move to Madrid.

Luis Enrique managed Mbappe during that final season in Paris—a year marked by controversy, as the France captain was first sidelined for refusing to extend his contract and later played only a limited role after confirming his exit.

“All I can say is that belongs in the past, it is behind us now,” said Luis Enrique.

“Lots of things make this a special game. This game is important because it is a Club World Cup semi-final. That makes it very interesting, and we need to be ready to remain focused on the match.

“We are very close to playing another final, and that is a true motivation,” added the coach, who will have to manage without defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez—both suspended following red cards in PSG’s quarter-final victory over Bayern Munich.

As PSG aim to cap a silverware-filled season with another major title, Real Madrid are beginning a new chapter under newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso.

“I think it’s very difficult to analyze Real Madrid because Xabi Alonso is just starting his work there,” said Luis Enrique, who, despite being strongly associated with Barcelona, also had a stint as a player at Real Madrid in the 1990s.

“For me it has always been a pleasure to play against Real Madrid, and it always will be.
“They are the most decorated club in the world, and Xabi has everything required to take on the challenge.”

Real coach Alonso did not address the media on Tuesday, as the Spanish side’s flight from their Florida training base to New York was delayed by stormy weather.

The winner of Wednesday’s semi-final will face Chelsea in Sunday’s final. The English club booked their spot after defeating Brazilian side Fluminense 2-0 in the first semi-final held on Tuesday.