PSG manager Luis Enrique remained tight-lipped ahead of the UEFA Super Cup final, expertly parrying questions regarding a potential move for Ferran Torres.
Ferran Torres looks increasingly destined for the French capital. PSG are understood to be closely monitoring the forward, who is eager to bring the curtain down on his time at FC Barcelona. Addressing the media, Luis Enrique point-blank refused to be drawn on the Foios-born attacker or the broader transfer market. Instead, the Asturian coach focused on his ambitions for the upcoming campaign—including matching Real Madrid’s feat of three consecutive Champions League titles—and the looming UEFA Super Cup clash with Aston Villa.
The Ferran question
“I do not discuss the transfer market; I only talk about players who are currently at PSG.”
Praise for Spanish football
“Spanish football has been at the pinnacle for several years now. With this second star, I hope it heralds a new era of sustained success for the national team and the domestic game as a whole. Luis Aragones laid the foundations for this possession-based philosophy, which was refined by Pep Guardiola’s FC Barcelona to conquer Europe with such flair. They truly blazed a trail.”
Limited preparation time
“Our aim is to peak at the business end of the season rather than the start. Last year posed unique challenges, and this term is no different. Regarding preparation, it is a delicate balancing act managing the minutes each player can handle. We will assess the situation on Wednesday, but it is a complex puzzle; nevertheless, we will do everything in our power to perform at our highest level.”
The challenge of matching Madrid’s three consecutive Champions Leagues
“We have set ourselves ambitious targets from the off and we will not deviate from that approach. This is a new chapter, and there is a collective belief that we can taste success again. That is all well and good in theory, but we must translate that quality onto the pitch. We are hungry for more silverware, though history reminds us just how difficult that is to achieve.”
On his players’ ongoing hunger
“I am privileged to work with a group of players who remain incredibly driven. They do not require external motivation; they have an internal fire to improve every day. I consider myself very lucky to have a squad with this mentality.”
The tactical blueprint against Aston Villa
“The objective is to remain unpredictable for our opponents. That is vital to our approach and what we strive for. It will be a cornerstone of our game throughout the campaign. We head into the new season with that same relentless desire to win trophies.”
Barcola’s situation amid Liverpool interest
“We have a training session still to come, and we will make a final decision after that. I cannot speculate on his future. I prefer not to single out individuals, as discussing a player’s future—whether positively or negatively—always carries inherent risks.”