As Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Real Madrid prepare to face off in the Club World Cup semi-final, PSG coach Luis Enrique has skillfully avoided discussing Kylian Mbappe, who now plays for Real Madrid. The highly anticipated match is set to take place in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
When questioned about comparisons between his current Champions League-winning PSG squad and the team that included Mbappe, Luis Enrique stated, "This is a question about the past and I'm not here to talk about the past, I'm only thinking about the future". He emphasized his focus remains on the present and future of his team, rather than dwelling on past dynamics.
Despite sidestepping direct Mbappe-related questions, Luis Enrique acknowledged the added excitement of facing his former player. He admitted that playing against Real Madrid, a team he recognizes as the "most successful in the world", provides "definitely extra motivation". This suggests that while he's not focused on individual rivalries, he understands the significance of the match and the challenge it presents.
The game will be held in challenging conditions in New Jersey, with high temperatures and humidity expected. Luis Enrique commented on the conditions, stating, "We're getting used to it...It's not good for the spectacle because it's difficult to play in that position. It's the same for both teams". Despite these difficulties, he conveyed his excitement for the high-stakes match. "Playing against Real Madrid will be a special match, no doubt about it. At the same time, we like playing these kinds of games because it means you've done your job well".
The reunion of Mbappe and Luis Enrique adds an intriguing layer to the Club World Cup semi-final. Their relationship during their time at PSG was marked by both success and reported tensions. While they spent a season together at Paris Saint-Germain, they didn't win the Champions League. After Mbappe's departure, Luis Enrique suggested he felt more in control, hinting at tactical constraints due to the French star's influence.
Mbappe's move to Real Madrid followed PSG's Champions League victory, a title he couldn't secure during his time in Paris. Despite this, Mbappe congratulated his former club, and Luis Enrique acknowledged he would have liked to have Mbappe in the squad.
Luis Enrique is known for prioritizing the team's system over individual stars. He aims to prove that the team comes first. This philosophy seems to have guided PSG to their Champions League success and shapes his approach to the upcoming match against Real Madrid.
With PSG seeking to add another trophy to their cabinet and Real Madrid starting a new chapter under their coach, the Club World Cup semi-final promises to be a compelling encounter. While Luis Enrique downplays the Mbappe narrative, the subtext remains, adding extra spice to an already significant match.
