As Paris Saint-Germain gear up for a pivotal Champions League encounter with Bayer Leverkusen, manager Luis Enrique is standing firmly behind his young goalkeeper, Lucas Chevalier. Despite recent scrutiny and the immense pressure of guarding the net for one of Europe’s top clubs, the 22-year-old shot-stopper has earned his coach’s full support.
Luis Enrique Praises Chevalier’s Mental Toughness
Lucas Chevalier, who joined PSG from Lille during the summer transfer window, has been Luis Enrique’s preferred choice between the posts this season. With the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma to Manchester City, Chevalier stepped into the spotlight—and into one of the most scrutinized roles in French football.
“For me, he’s among the best options available, if not the best,” Enrique said during his pre-match press conference in Germany. “Lucas has demonstrated personality and maturity. Being PSG’s goalkeeper comes with heavy criticism, but I admire his mentality and the level he’s delivering.”
Enrique’s endorsement sends a clear message: Chevalier is more than just a temporary solution—he’s a long-term investment for the Parisian giants.
Donnarumma’s Exit and Legacy of Scrutiny
Enrique also addressed the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who helped PSG secure their first-ever Champions League title last season before transferring to Manchester City.
Recalling the criticism the Italian keeper endured during his time in Paris, Enrique noted, “Many people forget how much Donnarumma was criticised for years. For four seasons, he faced relentless pressure.”
The manager’s comments served as a reminder that intense scrutiny is part of the job, but also that goalkeepers—especially at a club like PSG—must be resilient.
Unbeaten Start in the League Phase
PSG currently sit third in the Champions League table with six points, trailing behind Manchester City and Real Madrid. The French side opened the group stage with two wins and will look to maintain momentum against a revamped Leverkusen squad.
“We’re aiming to accumulate as many points as possible early in this difficult league phase,” Enrique emphasized. “We’ve made a good start, but tomorrow presents a new kind of challenge.”
A recent 2-1 win at Barcelona has boosted confidence within the camp, especially after what Enrique called “a very difficult start” to the domestic season. PSG are currently second in Ligue 1 behind Olympique de Marseille.
Dembele Returns, Ballon d’Or Talk Dismissed
Luis Enrique also confirmed the return of Ousmane Dembele, brushing aside speculation and media chatter regarding the Ballon d’Or.
“You’re too focused on the Ballon d’Or,” he quipped. “It’s Ousmane Dembele—not the Ballon d’Or. We’re simply glad to have him back.”
Dembele’s availability offers an added boost to PSG’s attacking options as they prepare for what could be one of their toughest group-stage fixtures.
Leverkusen’s New-Look Side a Tactical Puzzle
Tuesday’s opponents, Bayer Leverkusen, have undergone major changes following the arrival of Danish head coach Kasper Hjulmand. With former manager Erik ten Hag moving on, the German club has brought in 20 new players and remains something of an enigma.
“It’s difficult to predict how they’ll play,” Enrique admitted. “They can press high or drop deep. We must be prepared for all scenarios.”
With both sides adapting to evolving lineups and tactics, the showdown in Germany promises to be a telling test for PSG’s squad depth and maturity.
