Mbappé Benched, Return Leg Danger : Luis Enrique’s Press Conference before Real Sociedad vs. PSG

Luis Enrique provided insights before the Champions League round of 16 return leg between PSG and Real Sociedad on Tuesday night.

Managing Mbappé as in Ligue 1? « What I expect from the team is to rise to the occasion. Approach the match as we’ve done before. I see the team is confident. Our objective is to win the match, and it will be tough, » he said. Before the press conference, he assured RMC Sport that he could handle Mbappé as in Ligue 1. No special status: « Yes, of course. Why not? » Mbappé’s attitude? « I believe Tuesday’s match is equally important, so there’s no further comment to make… »

Handling the result (2-0 in the first leg). « We manage it normally. The scenario is very appealing; the city and the competition are eagerly anticipating this moment. We will have a special training session, the day before the match and on the pitch where we will play. »

The return match, always challenging for PSG. « Return matches are always tough. Even with more favorable matchups than the one we have. It’s a good result, but it can be complicated if you don’t take to the field with the right attitude and focus. We need to work on all offensive and defensive aspects. We are in a good moment; I can have my 23 players ready to play this Tuesday. »

Will Nuno Mendes start? « We are following the normal process with him for his progression. He may start, but not play the full match. We are pleased because he has top offensive and defensive abilities. We are also happy for him because a long absence is always challenging. »