Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has dismissed suggestions from Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca regarding Ligue 1’s impact on PSG’s UEFA Champions League success. Enrique labelled Maresca’s comments as “typical noise around PSG,” following his side’s recent 4-2 victory over Manchester City.
Maresca’s Claims and Match Context
Enzo Maresca had implied that the perceived weakness of the French top flight provided an advantage to PSG in Europe. His remarks came after Manchester City’s defeat to the reigning European champions in a Champions League fixture.
The Manchester City manager highlighted the differing preparations for European matches. “PSG can manage their players before the Champions League. For us, it is a bit different, especially when you have to go to Anfield,” Maresca stated.
Indeed, Manchester City had faced a demanding schedule, including a 3-0 win against Liverpool at Anfield just days before their clash with PSG. That game saw Ryan Gravenberch receive a red card just after the hour mark, influencing the outcome.
In contrast, PSG had rested several key players in their preceding 3-1 league victory over Le Mans FC. In that match, Mika Godts, Ferran Torres, and Maghnes Akliouche all started in attack, while fringe players such as Lucas Beraldo, Dro Fernandez, Lucas Hernandez, and Lucas Digne also featured. Of these players, only Akliouche went on to start against Manchester City, allowing PSG’s main squad members more recovery time.
Enrique’s Rebuttal
Responding on Friday, Luis Enrique was unequivocal in his rejection of Maresca’s premise. “It is the typical noise around PSG,” the Spaniard said. He elaborated on a perceived double standard in criticism directed at the Parisian club.
“Before even coming here, I heard that PSG wouldn’t win the Champions League because of the level [of Ligue 1], and now that the club has won, that is the reason. People will always complain,” Enrique added, highlighting a consistent pattern of criticism regardless of the team’s performance.
Under Luis Enrique’s leadership, Paris Saint-Germain have secured back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles, a significant achievement that underpins his confidence in dismissing such criticisms about the league’s influence.