PSG’s Luis Enrique: “If it’s a shitty opinion, you don’t have to respect it”

After a breathless showdown with Bayern, Paris Saint-Germain must quickly refocus before the return leg, facing Lorient this Saturday in Ligue 1’s Matchday 32. On the eve of the game, Luis Enrique addressed the media and delivered a blunt response to those who criticized the defensive display in the 5–4 clash.

PSG vs Bayern part II awaits

Asked whether that kind of match can draw younger fans to soccer, he didn’t hold back: “This is like life – there are opinions of all kinds. I don’t think all opinions should be respected, because if it’s a shitty opinion, you don’t have to respect it.” He added that most people who love the sport enjoyed the spectacle, which is what matters.

On Fabián Ruiz’s return, the PSG coach was unequivocal. “Of course I’m happy he’s back. He’s an incredible player, an international, one of the best midfielders in the world,” he said, confirming the Spaniard could see minutes soon after recovering from injury.

Achraf Hakimi’s absence, however, remains a major blow. “What do I need to explain? He starts under every coach, always plays at the highest level. He’s a Moroccan machine,” Luis Enrique said, before confirming the full-back will miss the trip to Munich.

Reflecting on Tuesday’s clash, he dismissed any notion of frustration. “It was a unique game for me. The result wasn’t due to poor defending – it was because the attackers were incredible,” he explained, even highlighting the defensive work of forwards like Harry Kane and Ousmane Dembélé. For him, the game was a moment to congratulate both teams.

With the return leg looming, rotation remains an open question. “Every game is different. Right now, we need the three points. We’ll analyze everything and decide what’s best,” he said cautiously, offering no clear clues.

That same ambiguity extended to the goalkeeper situation. Luis Enrique hinted at flexibility based on past experience. “Why can’t things change in soccer? I’m open to it,” he noted, while refusing to confirm whether the backup keeper could start.

He also downplayed the physical toll of the Bayern clash. “It wasn’t the most physically intense game of the season. It was the most important, but emotionally it’s different – that’s what tires you out,” he explained.

Finally, the PSG coach underlined his team’s identity. “We have real strength. If teams don’t press us, we can hurt them. If they do, we can hurt them too,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to a possession-based approach without ruling out counterattacks when needed.

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