Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has described Wednesday’s Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid as a “special” encounter, as the European giants prepare for a blockbuster showdown at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Fresh from clinching their maiden UEFA Champions League title, PSG are aiming to crown a historic season with Club World Cup glory. However, standing in their way are the 15-time European champions Real Madrid, now under the leadership of former midfield maestro Xabi Alonso.
“Playing against Real Madrid is always a special game,” said Luis Enrique during his pre-match press conference. “We are delighted to be in this position it means we’ve done a good job. This match is important not only because of the opponents, but because we are one step away from another final.”
The game also marks a reunion with former PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe, who joined Real Madrid after a final season in Paris under Enrique. Their relationship was often scrutinized during a turbulent campaign where Mbappe was first sidelined for refusing a contract extension and later reintegrated before ultimately confirming his departure.
“All of that is in the past,” Enrique stated firmly. “This game is about now it’s a semi-final, and that’s our only focus.”
The Spanish tactician will have to navigate the match without key defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez, both suspended following red cards in PSG’s fiery quarter-final win over Bayern Munich.
While PSG continue their quest for another major trophy, Real Madrid enter the contest ushering in a new era under Alonso, who succeeded Carlo Ancelotti. Due to weather-related travel delays, Alonso was unavailable for pre-match media duties.
“Xabi Alonso is just beginning his work with Real, so it’s hard to analyse them in depth,” Luis Enrique noted. “But I’m sure he has what it takes for the job. Real Madrid is the most decorated club in the world it’s always a pleasure to face them.”
The winner of this high-stakes clash will meet Chelsea in Sunday’s final, after the English side defeated Fluminense 2-0 in the first semi-final.
With history, rivalry, and silverware on the line, Wednesday’s tie promises to be a memorable night in New York.
