Athletic Bilbao has no secrets for Luis Enrique: with 17 clashes under his belt, the Basque club is the one he has faced the most since the start of his coaching career. This Wednesday evening (9 p.m.), the PSG coach will cross paths with the Spaniards for the first time in the Champions League. At a press conference on Tuesday evening, the Asturian expressed his joy at being able to play in San Mamés while warning his players about the warm atmosphere that reigns there.
Can you describe the atmosphere of the San Mamés stadium to us?
LUIS HENRY. It is one of the best stadiums in Spain. I had the opportunity to be the opposing coach in the first match played in this stadium, when I was coaching Vigo. A stand was still missing and we had lost this match! I had the opportunity to talk to the players about the atmosphere. It’s wonderful to play here. It’s a very important match for us, for them too.
How have you managed to create a close relationship with your players?
The relationship I have with my group depends on each player. It also depends on whether they play a lot of matches or not. I am looking to have a relationship that is very close. I like it. But it all depends on the players. I try to control that, to see if the player wants more or less contact. I think it’s important as a coach to have a good relationship.
Do you think PSG is scarier this season?
I think this is a question to ask the opponents. This year, we see that the opponents are even more motivated. When you are European champion, it’s an extra motivation. Tomorrow, it will be a very difficult match because it is a team that plays with a very physical, technical rhythm. They know how to defend, how to attack. You have to be ready.
Is Nuno Mendes fit to start?
There remains the last session to decide. Every time there is an injury, we look for a solution. Many players can play on the left, Mayulu, Pacho, Zaire-Emery. With the mentality, everyone can play on the wing.
What inspires you about the Basque culture that exists in Bilbao?
It’s a very different club. I like this club, I like its personality. They are playing in the Champions League, that means a lot. I like their colors, which are those of my club in Gijon. It’s nice to come to San Mamés, I played in the old one and I coached in the new one. It’s a real pleasure to be here.
“My players will not be relaxed”
How are you experiencing your reunion with Ernesto Valverde?
It was in 2013-2014. I am the same, he is a coach that I admire, I appreciate his attitude, his non-verbal language. He knows Barça, I wish him the best. It’s an honor to play against Bilbao tomorrow.
Which players scare you the most?
I told my players that if they thought they were facing a team that only had four points, it would be a mistake. I told them it will be very difficult, very hard. Bilbao is a chameleon, it’s a team that has a connection with its supporters. There are a lot of dynamic young players who press well. It will be complicated. We are going to have to give a very good version if we want to win this match.
PSG is favorite all the same?
My players know what will await them. My team will not be calm tomorrow when they arrive on the field. It’s not a match won tomorrow. My players will not be relaxed. From the first minute, we will try to win, our goal is to win the Champions League a second time, that’s why we have to win tomorrow.
How do you plan to use Désiré Doué tomorrow?
Doué is back, it’s important for us to know how to manage his minutes. I saw him this week, I hope he can play tomorrow and we’ll see tomorrow for the exact playing time.
What do you think of Zaire-Emery’s good run?
Warren is one of the most mature players I have seen. It’s nice to see a player with this character. He still has a lot of things to improve. I’m happy for him because he deserves all the good things that happen to him. He helps the team as a right back. He’s a complete player and I’m very happy to have a player like him.
