Luis Enrique insists that PSG must remain grounded despite their stellar season ahead of their Club World Cup final against Chelsea. Here’s why the manager is taking nothing for granted as he eyes a historic trophy.
Luis Enrique Warns PSG: Club World Cup Final Not a “Simple Formality” Against Chelsea
As Paris Saint-Germain prepares for its historic Club World Cup final against Chelsea, manager Luis Enrique is urging his players to remain focused and not underestimate the challenge ahead. Despite the French giants’ remarkable form this season, which has seen them win the French league and cup double and claim their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, Enrique warned that Sunday’s showdown at MetLife Stadium would be far from a straightforward victory.
“This is absolutely not going to be a simple formality,” the Spanish coach said with conviction. “Chelsea are a very complete team, and Enzo Maresca is doing an excellent job with them. I have analyzed Chelsea, and I really like what he is doing. They have a great squad.”
A Historic Season on the Line
PSG’s 2024/2025 campaign has been nothing short of extraordinary. Under Enrique’s leadership, they have achieved the unthinkable, winning major domestic trophies and securing their first-ever Champions League crown. A victory in the Club World Cup would cap off a dream season, with the French side on the cusp of completing a clean sweep of titles.
“We want to finish this historic season in the best possible way,” said Enrique, emphasizing the club’s desire to etch its name further into football history. “Now we must open the next chapter, win more major trophies. We want to make more history by winning on Sunday.”
Enrique’s confidence is grounded in the team’s recent performances, including a dominant 4-0 semifinal win over Real Madrid. PSG’s attacking firepower has been evident throughout the competition, with their offensive trio of Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, and Gonçalo Ramos wreaking havoc on opposition defenses.
However, the coach is fully aware that the final is a different beast, and despite their form, no match can ever be taken for granted. “In a final, there is always a winner and a loser, and that doesn’t mean the loser has necessarily done anything wrong,” he added. “We will lose again at some point because that is what happens in top-level football, but I think the path is clear for everyone.”
Chelsea: A Serious Threat
Enrique has great respect for Chelsea and their manager Enzo Maresca. The Premier League side, despite finishing 12th in the league, has shown a strong competitive edge, highlighted by their FA Cup triumph and impressive squad depth. Maresca’s tactical system has breathed new life into the Blues, making them a tough opponent.
The French coach noted Chelsea’s solid team structure and quality across all areas, stressing that PSG cannot afford to underestimate them. “Chelsea is a team that can surprise us, and we have to be ready for that,” Enrique remarked.
Marquinhos and PSG’s Historic Opportunity
While Enrique has his feet firmly planted in the reality of football’s unpredictability, PSG captain Marquinhos has also recognized the magnitude of the match. “We are aware of the importance of this match, that it is a golden opportunity to be in a World Cup final,” the Brazilian defender said. “This only happens every four years, and we don’t know where we will be in four years.”
For PSG, this is more than just another final. It is a chance to cement their legacy as the world’s best team and go down in history as Club World Cup champions.
The Club World Cup’s Unique Significance
The 2025 edition of the Club World Cup marks the first time the tournament features 32 teams, making this year’s final even more historic. The winning team will hold the title of world champions for the next four years, with the next competition set for 2029. This adds an extra layer of prestige to Sunday’s encounter, as both teams know they could carry the mantle for the next half-decade.
PSG’s journey from underperforming in previous international competitions to now potentially ruling the world stage is a testament to the work done by Luis Enrique and his players. But they must remain sharp against a Chelsea side with nothing to lose and everything to prove.
