PSG manager Luis Enrique analysed his team's 4-2 victory over Barcelona and warned that it would be a major mistake to think his side is the best. He emphasised that the match was extremely difficult and praised the opponents' performance.
Enrique said he had seen the kind of game he expected, very difficult and complicated, and that one cannot fully understand Barcelona's level until facing them on the pitch. He noted that it was very even. In the first half, he said, his team was very good, controlling Barcelona and winning the ball in their half. In the second half, they had problems for about 10 or 15 minutes, but managed to recover and take the lead again, which settled them.
When asked if PSG is now a step above, the manager answered: 'No.' He said that would be the first trap, to think they are the best or special in some way. He added that they did a good job defensively today and were better at winning the ball in the opponent's half in the first half, which was down to their forwards. Without the help of teammates, he stressed, it is impossible to defend against players like Lamine, Fermín or Olmo.
Enrique added that a team must know how to adapt to win big games. He explained that they had to defend in a low block for 15 minutes, but that they know how to play on the transition as well. Opponents are top-class and can win at any moment, he said, highlighting his team's ability to adapt.
The manager also said one should not judge solely by the result. The team was capable of playing an incredible first half, pressing them very high, while Barcelona were better for 15 minutes in the second half, but his players adapted. They started playing on the counter-attack, which shows what kind of team they are and that they adapt to everything. He stated that the individual and collective quality of Barcelona is incredible, which gives their success even greater significance.
Enrique, a former trophy-laden player and manager of Barcelona, finally added: 'I am a Barcelona fan, but I am a professional and I enjoy my team's wins.'
