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PARIS — Luis Enrique acknowledges the significant influence Pep Guardiola has had on modern attacking football, lauding him for creating what he calls the “perfect model.”
As the head of Paris Saint-Germain, Enrique faces a considerable challenge in outsmarting the Manchester City coach during their Champions League clash on Wednesday—a crucial match for both teams, who are at risk of early elimination under the new tournament format.
“This match is particularly noteworthy. It’s not just about the teams; it’s also about reuniting with a friend with whom I’ve shared many memorable experiences, both as a player and as a person,” Enrique expressed through a translator.
He emphasized their shared philosophy of the game: aiming to outperform the opposition with possession and relentless pressing. Enrique noted, “We can refine our styles, but fundamentally we think alike.”
Guardiola gained recognition as a coach leading Barcelona during a period of remarkable success, securing back-to-back Champions League titles and numerous other trophies. His teams mesmerized rivals with an exhilarating attacking style, largely driven by Lionel Messi’s brilliance, setting a benchmark for football in Europe. After his tenure at Barcelona, Guardiola transformed Manchester City into a dominant force in the Premier League.
Enrique described Guardiola’s 4-3-3 system at Barcelona as nearly flawless, saying, “He revolutionized the way football is played in England and successfully opened up many new pathways for others.” He appreciates Guardiola’s willingness to innovate continually. “Throughout his career, Pep has embraced change and is not afraid to adapt again,” Enrique remarked.
Guardiola clinched another Champions League title with City in 2023, while Enrique’s PSG made it to the semifinals last season.
Their connection runs deep, with both coaches sharing a strong bond from their time at Barcelona. “We were good friends while at the club, and our families are also closely intertwined,” Guardiola highlighted. “Our friendship is everlasting; they genuinely love us, and I believe we share an incredible bond.”
Playing together from 1996 to 2001 at Barcelona, both 54-year-old coaches marked their tenure with distinct playing styles—Enrique as a dynamic creative force, netting 109 goals, while Guardiola operated as a strategic defensive presence.
As coaching peers, their styles align closely. “If there’s one thing that characterizes both Pep and me as coaches, it would be our offensive mindset. We prioritize proper defense while also focusing on devising an approach to outperform the other team,” Enrique said, alluding to his 2015 Champions League triumph with Barcelona. “There’s a lot to consider when I sip my cappuccino in the morning.”
The looming concern for Enrique is PSG’s precarious position in the tournament.
Similarly, Manchester City also finds itself at risk. Currently, PSG occupies the 25th spot out of 36 teams, while City is marginally better off in 22nd place. The bottom twelve teams face elimination.
“Everyone needs to be prepared,” Enrique warned. “Manchester City employs various tactical strategies and frequently shifts positions. However, we can create problems for them as well. The team that adapts best or executes its strategies effectively is likely to emerge victorious.”
City, having experienced a rocky patch, appears to be regaining form, having scored 22 goals over their last five matches. Players like Phil Foden are hitting their stride, and prolific striker Erling Haaland has recently committed to a lucrative contract through 2034.
“Manchester City also excels in transition play and possesses a wealth of attacking threats,” Enrique noted. “It will come down to who can maximize their possession. We aim to control the ball, as maintaining possession increases our chances of success.”
A vital component of their strategy remains converting chances into goals.
PSG has struggled offensively, managing only six goals across six matches and failing to score against formidable opponents like Bayern Munich and Arsenal.
Guardiola, in a humorous tone, wished for “a dismal performance from PSG” ahead of their encounter.
The absence of Kylian Mbappé, who transferred to Real Madrid, looms large over PSG. Mbappé netted a remarkable 44 goals last season, presenting a significant gap in their attacking capabilities.
“We certainly lost a key player who consistently found the back of the net,” Enrique acknowledged. “None of our current players have shown the potential to score 25 goals a season, so we must find collective solutions.”
Currently, PSG’s primary goal-scoring threat lies with winger Ousmane Dembélé, who has recently recovered from a debilitating illness.
“I feel much better now,” Dembélé reported. “I had five or six tough days, but I’m back to form.”
With 11 goals in 22 appearances, Dembélé is on track to surpass his previous record of 14 goals during his time at Barcelona in the 2018-19 season.
“I’m enjoying a productive phase,” Dembélé commented. “I feel much calmer and more composed in front of goal these days.”
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