PSG carry a narrow edge into Munich, but their coach insists mindset – not margin – will decide a semifinal poised on a knife edge.

Angelika Warmuth

Champions League

PSG’s Luis Enrique: “For these matches, I remember a phrase from Rafa Nadal...”

Andrés Onrubia Calum Roche

Update: May 5th, 2026 17:11 EDT

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Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique spoke to the media at the Allianz Arena ahead of the second leg of the Champions League semifinal against Bayern Munich. The Asturian manager referenced a quote from Rafael Nadal to sharpen his team’s competitive edge and made clear that, despite holding an advantage from Paris, his side will not speculate on the result and is focused solely on winning the game.

Asked whether he expects another chaotic game like the first leg, he was blunt. “What I expect doesn’t matter much. I think it will be a high-level game between two of the best teams in Europe, both eager to reach a Champions League final – an exciting stage for both sides.”

On whether he suffers or enjoys these occasions, Luis Enrique did not sugarcoat it. “Enjoying it as a top-level coach is difficult. What we try to do is prepare our team mentally for what matters. Both teams will give everything.”

PSG’s Luis Enrique: “For these matches, I remember a phrase from Rafa Nadal...” — Paris Saint-Germain's Spanish head coach Luis Enrique addresses a press conference at the Allianz Arena in Munich.ALEXANDRA BEIER

PSG’s mentality and handling pressure

When asked if PSG are ready to withstand pressure, he pointed to last season’s experience. “It’s easier to say than to do. Last year we showed our ability to manage difficult moments. Tomorrow we’ll play to be more competitive than ever because we need that. When I watch these kinds of games, I remember a quote from Rafa Nadal, who said that his rivalry with Federer and Djokovic motivated him. I tell my players we admire Bayern because they play very good football, but that admiration is also motivation to find our best level. Tomorrow we’ll see a spectacular atmosphere.”

Returning to Munich, where he previously lifted the Champions League, adds context but not necessity. “We don’t need extra motivation – we’re already at 100 percent. Coming back to Munich is always a pleasure because we can remember what we did last year. And if I go further back, the year I won the Champions League with Barcelona, we also played the semifinal second leg here. We won – and then we won the final. That adds even more motivation.”

Keeping emotions in check after the first leg

Luis Enrique acknowledged the emotional weight of the first leg. “When you play these games against what is undoubtedly the toughest opponent we’ve faced, and the result surprises everyone… the first thing I say is that we won the game. We have a small advantage. That means nothing in football because there were moments for both teams. Controlling emotions is key – easier said than done. Having nearly 4,000 PSG fans here is extra motivation for us.”

On whether PSG might play cautiously, he dismissed the idea. “There are always differences between a first and second leg, whether due to the result or the teams themselves. But I can’t say tomorrow’s game will be different from the first. Neither team is better than the other.”

No room for calculation – only ambition

Looking ahead to tactical changes, he emphasized improvement over reinvention. “We always aim to improve. If you compare results between Kompany and myself, there’s only one game with many goals – the rest are normal results. Tomorrow could bring different scenarios. The team that falls behind will have to change things and push for a win. As a team, we approach this like any away game. I repeat: this is our mentality. We want to win. Tomorrow we’re not defending any result – we’re going out to win. It’s a challenge, but we’re happy with our away performances this season.”

Pressed on whether PSG will win, his answer remained measured. “I always say the same thing – we’ll try to win. Whether you do or not depends on many factors in the game. No player or fan will stop fighting or singing. We’ve reached this stage through great work. Now it’s time to give a little more to reach the final. We have to stay true to who we are as a team.”

Embracing the chaos of elite competition

Finally, he reflected on how both teams handle adversity. “What both teams have shown is the ability to manage difficult moments. The game started with a goal from Harry Kane, then we scored. Then they equalized… and everyone was worried after 5-4. Worried about what? We showed the mentality both teams have. You have to enjoy these kinds of games. We can still improve our performance.”