Luis Enrique spoke to reporters before the Club World Cup final against Chelsea and assessed both the competition and the state of his squad.

“Nobody really knows how the other team is coming into the match. That’s not what matters. The final is near, and we’re feeling great. It’s been a historic season, and we want to finish it in the best way possible,” he said.

The tournament

“I’ve seen a phenomenal attitude from all the players. In terms of efficiency, the year has been incredible. If I had to assess the entire season—extraordinary.”

Fabián

“The praise Fabián is getting could be said about any PSG player. That’s the key to this team—everyone gives their all. He struggled two years ago, but now he’s undroppable.”

Personal touch

“I’ve gotten more things right during times when I wasn’t winning—and I was crucified for it. I still make plenty of mistakes. But the result is the result.”

The star of the tournament?

“Me, a star? Not even close. I enjoy what I do. I especially enjoy the tough moments. When things aren’t going well, I feel more alive. Winning is great because it makes people happy, but I’ve always felt more comfortable when I’ve been criticized than when I’ve been praised.”

The season of your life?

“It might be. But there’s still a final to win. Once we’ve won it, we can talk. We need to give everything. Just look at City—they win everything, then lose ten matches and suddenly they’re under fire. Pep is still the best coach in the world—and they crucify him.”

Is Chelsea just a formality?

“Only people who don’t know Chelsea would say that. They’ve got a coach I really admire. It’s a complete team. This is anything but a formality. We’ll go into the match giving 100 percent.”

No superstars

“You need a team with eleven stars, not just one. That’s football—and that’s our goal. Not just eleven, but thirteen, fifteen... the real star should be the team. That’s what our club stands for. We’re going to lose again, that’s for sure. We want stars—but in service of the team.”

Praise

“The best praise we’ve received has come from fellow players or coaches saying they enjoy watching PSG play. That’s our goal: to give football fans—and sports fans in general—something exciting to watch.”

Ballon d’Or for coaches?

“I don’t believe in individual awards in general, so even less for coaches. The team comes first. Dembélé has been the best this season in goals, assists, and work rate. That much is clear to me.”

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