Luis Enrique: “Facing One of the Best Teams in Europe… But We Are the Defending Champions!”

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has issued a confident yet realistic message ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League 2025/26 semi-final against FC Bayern Munich.

The tie pits the defending champions PSG against one of Europe’s strongest teams in current form. The first leg is scheduled for Tuesday, 28 April 2026 at Parc des Princeswith the return leg on Wednesday, 6 May 2026 at Allianz Arena.

Luis Enrique’s Full Quotes on Facing Bayern

“Facing Bayern? Now we will be facing one of the best teams in Europe at the moment. But we are the defending champions. It’s hard to predict what will happen.”

“Favourites? It doesn’t matter who the favourite is. What matters is what we show on the pitch.”

The Spanish coach emphasized that while Bayern Munich are in excellent shape, PSG’s status as reigning European champions gives them belief and motivation. He stressed that pre-match labels like “favourites” hold little value — the outcome will be decided by on-pitch performance.

PSG’s Path to the Semi-Finals

PSG have shown strong form in the 2025/26 campaign, reaching the semi-finals after impressive displays, including their elimination of Liverpool. As title holders, they carry the pressure and experience of defending the crown, something Luis Enrique acknowledged is “difficult” but a challenge the squad is embracing.

Bayern Munich, known for their intensity and attacking quality, represent a tough test. The German side advanced through a competitive quarter-final route, setting up a classic heavyweight encounter between two clubs with rich Champions League histories.

What to Expect in PSG vs Bayern Munich

This semi-final promises high-stakes football:

  • First Leg (28 April 2026): PSG host at Parc des Princes — a venue where the French giants have been formidable.
  • Second Leg (6 May 2026): Bayern welcome PSG to the Allianz Arena, where home support could play a major role.

Luis Enrique’s approach has often focused on tactical discipline, high pressing, and making the most of key players. His refusal to engage in favourite-talk reflects a mature, focused mindset: prepare well, perform on the day, and let results follow.

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