Straight from former champion Enrique: candid remarks after PSG scrapes into the UCL Round of 16.
On 26 February 2026, Luis Enrique, head coach of Paris Saint-Germain, Ligue 1 leaders, gave an interview following the thrilling second leg of the UEFA Champions League 2025-26 playoff round, where PSG drew 2-2 at home against fellow league rivals Monaco.
This result allowed defending champions PSG to narrowly advance to the UCL Round of 16 with a 5-4 aggregate score over two legs. They will face Chelsea, who previously defeated them in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, or Barcelona, the strong La Liga side. The draw is scheduled for Friday, 27 February.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan, last season’s runners-up and PSG’s final opponents, have been eliminated after a shocking upset by Norwegian dark horse Bodo/Glimt. Inter lost both legs, with an aggregate score of 2-5 (1-3 first leg, 1-2 second leg).
Although PSG progresses, it was a close call. Luis Enrique commented on the victory over Monaco, a team considered less strong, saying, "We were not surprised by the quality Monaco showed."
"We have demonstrated our strength this season and our ability to overcome difficulties. This competition is tough, so we know we must keep improving. The next round will be challenging; it is very important for us to develop further."
Regarding expectations to defend the UEFA Champions League title before facing Chelsea or Barcelona, the PSG coach responded, "We must continue doing what we have been doing. We are ready to play against anyone. We will keep working and maintain our commitment to winning every competition we enter."
