The same scenes are repeated, in the Saint-Germain-en-Laye park, at the exit of the PSG Campus or on match nights. Again on Friday, in Auxerre, as he was preparing to get back on the bus, Luis Enrique was able to measure his popularity among the fans shouting his name at the Abbé-Deschamps stadium.
Not insensitive to his signs of affection, the Spaniard delayed his departure and naturally took a series of selfies with young and old seduced by the man who changed the destiny of PSG. “I find that a close relationship has developed between the supporters and him,” remarks Anthony, a regular at the Park. He always has a word for the fans, he doesn’t hesitate to greet us after certain matches. He doesn’t cheat. It’s the image of the coach that he is, in fact. »
An emblematic, innovative, revolutionary coach who will leave an indelible mark in the history of PSG after bringing them their first Champions League. More than two and a half years after his arrival, the best coach of the Parisian club inevitably garners practically all the votes in the capital, even in a period when his team is slipping more. At this rate, Luis Enrique could almost settle the debate around the identity of Anne Hidalgo’s successor as mayor of Paris.
The Asturian admits, in private, that he takes pleasure in accepting external requests. No calculation on his part, just spontaneity and a desire to transmit his passion to the fans to whom he regularly pays tribute, again with frankness. A way for him to involve them in his project, since he considers these supporters to be key players in the club.
“He predicted everything that was going to happen”
The trophies won and his philosophy have, of course, greatly contributed to winning hearts. But there is the rest, this belief, this determination and this requirement that allows it to generate support.
“He predicted everything that was going to happen,” recalls Charly, subscriber to Auteuil. He said that PSG would play better without Mbappé, that the team would progress and that it would win all the trophies… He remained faithful to his line of conduct and his choices paid off. He changed the DNA of PSG. He healed the club of many of its wounds. It’s amazing what he’s done in such a short time. »
The charismatic coach ultimately became the tutelary figure of a club which had too often put individuals above the collective, the man having defined a framework in an often disordered house.
“The star of PSG is him,” summarizes Jérémy, based in Boulogne au Parc. He embodies the club at all levels: he is spokesperson, coach, manager and sporting director, since he validates all the recruits. This is unheard of in Paris, but can we really find anything to complain about? The game is less spectacular, but difficult to blame him in this very special season. »
Experiments quickly forgiven
Criticisms can sometimes concern his reluctance in the transfer window, his experiments a little too far or his stubbornness. His defenders will oppose his authenticity or his overflowing passion at the edge of the field. “We feel he has a mission,” appreciates Anthony. There is nothing more beautiful for a fan than to see a coach giving 1000% and always seeking to go higher. He is obsessed with winning. He’s the coach we’ve always dreamed of, he’s the coach of a lifetime! »
From there to seeing him end his career at PSG, where he is under contract until 2027? “The expiry date will be decided by him,” says Charly. Of course, it must be extended. But I don’t see a Wenger or Simeone destiny for him. When he gets tired of it, he will dictate the tempo. »
