“Luis Enrique ignores the World Cup and focuses on the Champions League.”

Luis Enrique remains undistracted by the World Cup: PSG advances relentlessly towards European glory

In a scenario where the world’s biggest football stars are preparing for the World Cup, Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique reveals an unyielding stance that goes against the tide: he is not at all concerned with the World Championship or managing the efforts of his players. While the French giants lead Ligue 1 and prepare to defend their Champions League title, the Spanish coach is focused exclusively on the club’s immediate present.

Next week, PSG faces Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals, a clash that could define the course of their European season. Despite the numerous injuries that have affected the squad, Luis Enrique maintains pressure on his team, refusing any notion of resting players in light of the upcoming World Cup.

Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz recently returned from a three-month absence due to injury, having come on as a substitute in the surprising home defeat against Lyon (2-1), a result that shook the French leader. On the other hand, talented Portuguese player Vitinha will not be available for the visit to Angers on Saturday, due to swelling in an ankle that has kept him out of the last match.

It is important to remember that PSG participated in the Club World Cup during the summer, reaching the final, which drastically reduced the players’ rest period before the start of the season. Over the past 18 months, the wear and tear on the team has been enormous, with an extremely intense match schedule.

When asked about the possibility of managing his players’ workload in view of the 2022 World Cup, Luis Enrique was categorical and even provocative: “I am the coach of Paris Saint-Germain; as for the rest, I am not interested at all,” declared the 55-year-old coach, who led the Spanish national team in the last World Cup. “I am not interested. What I have to manage is the situation at Paris Saint-Germain. Everything else is very clear.”

Regarding Vitinha’s condition, the coach confirmed that the player is suffering from a swollen heel that forced him to leave the match against Lyon, but assured that his condition is improving, although he continues to train individually.

With this straightforward stance, Luis Enrique challenges the current trend in global football, where coaches and clubs seek to preserve stars for major international competitions. At PSG, the priority is clear: to conquer Europe, no matter the cost. The message has been sent and promises to ignite the upcoming chapters of the season.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.