Club World Cup: Luis Enrique Describes PSG vs Real Madrid Semi-Final Clash as “Special”

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) head coach Luis Enrique has labelled the upcoming Club World Cup semi-final against Real Madrid as a “special” encounter, while downplaying any lingering tension surrounding his past relationship with Kylian Mbappe.

Speaking during a press conference at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the match will be played on Wednesday, Enrique expressed enthusiasm about facing the Spanish giants.

“Playing against Real Madrid is always a special game,” he said. “We’re delighted to be in this stage of the tournament it means we’ve done a good job so far.”

PSG enters the semi-final after a triumphant campaign in Europe, having recently secured their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, notably in the season following Mbappe’s high-profile move to Real Madrid.

Luis Enrique, who coached Mbappe during his final year in Paris, experienced a rocky period with the star forward. Mbappe was initially sidelined for refusing to extend his contract and later played only a limited role before making his departure official.

Despite this, Enrique insisted there are no lingering issues.

“That chapter is closed. It’s in the past now,” he stated. “This game is about the present. It’s a Club World Cup semi-final and we are just one win away from another major final. That’s our full focus.”

The Parisians will, however, be without defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez, both of whom were sent off during their intense quarter-final victory over Bayern Munich.

For Real Madrid, this clash marks the beginning of a new era under Xabi Alonso, who recently succeeded Carlo Ancelotti as head coach. Alonso’s debut at the tournament has attracted attention, though his media appearance was cancelled due to the team’s delayed flight from Florida, caused by stormy weather.

Luis Enrique offered praise for his fellow Spaniard:

“It’s difficult to assess Real Madrid right now since Xabi Alonso is just starting his journey with them. But he has all it takes to succeed. Madrid remains the most decorated football club in the world, and playing against them is always a pleasure even as a former Barcelona man.”