Knockout Mode Activated: Enrique Promises PSG's Real Champions League Starts Now
27 January 2026
Genuine Champions League Starts in the Knockouts
Louis Enrique, PSG's Spanish coach, says the real Champions League begins in the knockout rounds, and his side is built for the battles ahead. The atmosphere at this level, he notes, is different, and PSG have grown accustomed to tough matches.
Paris Saint-Germain prepare for a stern test at the Parc des Princes against Newcastle United on Wednesday evening, the final group-stage match of this campaign.
PSG sit on 13 points in sixth place, level on goal difference with Newcastle in seventh. The top eight teams advance directly to the knockout rounds, while teams from ninth to twenty-four face interlude playoffs to reach the same stage.
Enrique told the press that you can feel the lift when playing at this level—the mood shifts in the days leading up to a game like this. He added that a few players have returned and are fully ready, and today’s training was exceptionally high-level. He stressed that finishing in the top eight and beating a very strong opponent would be a positive sign for the club. "This is a crucial moment in the season," he said.
“The real Champions League starts in the knockout rounds. Then we will be a team that cannot be beaten, and we will prove it again this season,” he added, hoping to back up that belief on the field.
He also commented on the draw: Newcastle was placed as the fourth seed at the time, and five of the top ten teams were opponents. It’s unbelievable, he admitted, but that is the draw, and they must adapt.
In terms of the pitch, Enrique emphasized the importance of home support to guide the team through late stages, and that PSG will try to control every phase of play, especially in the final minutes. He warned that the final result will favor one side, and he hopes it will be PSG.
He added that upcoming matches will be even more important, and the team will continue to play in their trusted fashion, leveraging the talent and tools at hand.
Regarding Morocco star Achraf Hakimi, who returned from AFCON, Enrique said he participated in the last three training sessions. It’s mainly about physical and mental condition, but he should be ready to feature tomorrow.
On Warren Zaïre-Emery, Enrique explained that the young right-back is of the highest calibre, versatile and capable of playing in multiple positions—a crucial asset as the squad builds around youth and experience alike.
And about PSG’s new signing Dru Fernandez from Barcelona, Enrique stated that PSG favors talented young players who could be key in the future. The club remains open to all options during the transfer window and will be ready if opportunities arise.
PUNCHLINE 1: If PSG’s attack were a sniper rifle, every shot would be on target—headers included, even in the rain.
PUNCHLINE 2: The only thing sharper than PSG’s frontline is this joke: my calculator says PSG will score, the crowd says yes, and the referee says maybe—do you believe in miracles or in penalties?
