Luis Enrique After PSG Rout Real Madrid: “We Want to Make History… and Then Take a Vacation”
PSG manager praises team performance and Dembélé’s impact ahead of Club World Cup final against Chelsea
Following Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal, coach Luis Enrique expressed his satisfaction with both the result and his players’ performance. PSG now move on to face Chelsea in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium.
“It’s always difficult to play this kind of game,” Luis Enrique told DAZN after the final whistle. “We started very well, and I’m proud of the team’s performance. We’re in a special moment this season and we deserved to win.”
Dembélé a Ballon d’Or Contender, Says Luis Enrique
The Spanish coach singled out Ousmane Dembélé, who scored once and assisted in another goal, calling him the “best player this season.”
“This is the first match we’ve been able to use him consistently. He was injured with the national team, but now he’s back. He deserves to win everything this year he’s given everything for the team and helped us win trophies. That’s what matters most.”
When asked about the upcoming final against Chelsea, Luis Enrique added with a smile: “We want to make history for our club… and then take a vacation.”
Xabi Alonso Reflects on Real Madrid’s Collapse: “The Start of the Game Was Decisive”
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who took over the club just weeks ago, pointed to early defensive errors as the turning point in the match. Goals from Fabián Ruiz (2), Dembélé, and Gonçalo Ramos sealed Real’s heaviest defeat of the season.
“We were behind after just 10 minutes,” Alonso said. “PSG are two years into their project; we’re just beginning ours. These games show how much work lies ahead. It hurts, yes, but we’ll be back stronger.”
The manager also addressed the departures of Luka Modrić and Lucas Vázquez, who made their final appearances for the club in the semifinal.
“It wasn’t long, but I spent time with them, making the most of their last days. It’s not the farewell they deserved, but I thank them on behalf of everyone at the club.”
PSG and Chelsea will clash in the Club World Cup final on Sunday, July 13, at 4:00 PM (Brasília time) at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
