Luis Enrique has insisted that no team in Europe is better than Paris Saint-Germain as the holders prepare for a heavyweight Champions League semi-final clash against Bayern Munich.
The French champions host the German giants in Tuesday’s first leg, in a tie that brings together two of the most dangerous attacking sides in Europe. Bayern have already wrapped up the Bundesliga title after losing just once domestically, while they have also suffered only one defeat in Europe this season.
PSG, however, arrive with the confidence of reigning champions. Luis Enrique acknowledged Bayern’s remarkable consistency, but made it clear that his own side should not be considered inferior to anyone.
“Bayern are a bit ahead of us because they have only lost two games, but if we speak about what we have shown as a team, we are right up there,” he said. “No team is better than us.”
The numbers underline the scale of the contest. PSG scored 12 goals across the last 16 and quarter-final stages, while Bayern struck 16. Arsenal, who are also among the final four, have enjoyed an exceptional campaign, but Luis Enrique believes PSG’s overall level, both in attack and defence, places them among Europe’s elite.
The PSG coach also dismissed the idea that his side’s failure to finish in the top eight during the league phase should be used against them. He pointed to last season, when PSG followed a similar route before going on to lift the Champions League trophy.
For Luis Enrique, the emotional pull of the competition remains decisive.
“It is the magic of the Champions League which gives special energy to the players,” he said. “Everyone wants to be there and to make the most of this time.”
The flanks are expected to play a major role in the tie. Bayern possess serious pace and creativity through players such as Luis Diaz and Michael Olise, but Luis Enrique made it clear that PSG will not abandon their attacking identity. Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes remain central to his plans, even if both will have major defensive responsibilities.
“We won the Champions League last season with Hakimi and Nuno Mendes doing what they do,” he said. “They have to defend as well, but we know they have to attack more than they defend if we want to win.”
After finally conquering Europe last season, PSG are no longer chasing a dream that has haunted the club for years. But Luis Enrique insists that success has not softened their ambition.
“The first run was a relief,” he said. “Now it is a different source of motivation. Last year was great. We made history. And now, we are hungry for more.”
