PARIS – As Paris Saint-Germain prepares for a crucial Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Chelsea on Wednesday, forward Bradley Barcola insists the team is capable of rising to the occasion, despite recent criticism. The 23-year-old spoke to the media on Tuesday, emphasizing the team’s hunger for success and their preparation for a physically demanding match at Stamford Bridge.
Barcola, who has scored three goals in his last three Ligue 1 appearances, acknowledged the demand to elevate his performance on the European stage. PSG, fresh off a domestic treble including the Champions League title in 2025, faces a Chelsea side looking to build its own mark in the competition. The match, scheduled for 21:00 CET (3:00 PM ET), represents a significant test for both clubs.
Hunger Remains Despite Past Success
Despite a remarkably successful 2025 season, Barcola stressed that the desire to win remains strong within the PSG squad. “Yes, we always have the hunger,” he stated. “We knew it would be more complicated this year, but we always desire to win, that’s why we play. We always do everything to win.” This sentiment underscores the club’s ambition to maintain its position among Europe’s elite, even after achieving significant silverware.
Addressing Concerns About Form and Fitness
Recent performances have drawn criticism, with some questioning PSG’s physical condition. Barcola, however, dismissed these concerns, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to perform when it matters most. “I feel we are always capable of transcending, we’ve demonstrated that more than once,” he said. “We work enormously for this kind of match. We will do everything to be at our best.” This message is aimed at reassuring fans and projecting an image of resilience ahead of a challenging encounter.
Contract Negotiations and Future at PSG
The young forward also briefly addressed his future at the club, with his current contract set to expire in 2027. “It’s my agent who takes care of the negotiations,” Barcola explained. “We’ll see what happens, but I’m happy to be at PSG today.” This suggests that while he is content with his current situation, discussions regarding a potential extension are ongoing. Reports from June 2025 indicated that both Chelsea and Arsenal had made approaches for Barcola, valuing him at around £100 million, but PSG reportedly rejected those advances.
No Desire for Revenge, Just Victory
Asked about a potential desire for revenge following PSG’s loss to Chelsea in the 2024 Club World Cup final, Barcola downplayed the notion. “We don’t have that feeling of revenge, it was a different period, a different competition, it has nothing to do with it,” he said. “We really want to win this match, it’s very important, these are the knockout stages. It’s a very quality team, who play very well. But we have worked well to be ready for this match.” This pragmatic approach highlights the team’s focus on the present challenge rather than dwelling on past results.
Champions League is the Real Test
Barcola believes the Champions League knockout stages represent the true measure of a team’s capabilities. “These are the most complicated matches,” he stated. “It was complicated against English clubs last season, it will be even more so this year. They are in good form, they play well. We really like these matches, they are the best to play.” His comments acknowledge the increased intensity and quality of competition in the latter stages of the tournament.
Need to Reassure Themselves in Europe
The forward acknowledged the importance of regaining confidence in the Champions League after recent struggles. “It’s very important to reassure ourselves in relation to our recent matches in the Champions League,” he said. “We understand it will be complicated. It will be important for the future, if we manage to do the job.” This suggests a recognition of past shortcomings and a determination to improve their performance in the competition.
Addressing Finishing Concerns and Tactical Flexibility
Barcola addressed questions about his finishing ability, acknowledging the need to convert chances more consistently. “It’s not a problem for me,” he insisted. “I manage to create opportunities, now I have to finish them. At the beginning, I thought it was a lack of confidence, but with more success, I could have scored even more goals. I work a lot to fix that, I don’t get discouraged. A mental problem? I don’t think so.” His self-awareness and commitment to improvement are encouraging signs for PSG fans.
The 23-year-old also discussed his versatility, having played as a central striker earlier in his career. “I’ve already played there when I was younger before playing on the side,” he explained. “I can provide runs in depth, that’s something I master well. I still prefer to play on the side, that’s where I’ve evolved the most in the professional world.” He noted the guidance he receives from teammate Ousmane Dembélé, who has also been deployed in a central role, adding, “He gives me a lot of advice. He did it during the match at Auxerre when he came on. He’s a very good support.”
Understanding the Criticism
Barcola acknowledged the validity of recent criticism directed at the team’s performance. “It’s normal given our recent performances,” he conceded. “We always have the hunger, we all play to win matches and we don’t get discouraged.” This demonstrates a level of maturity and acceptance of responsibility within the squad.
Intensity Will Be Key Against Chelsea
Looking ahead to the match against Chelsea, Barcola emphasized the importance of matching their opponent’s intensity. “We will have to be determined from the start of the match, give nothing away, be ready very quickly,” he said. “We know it will be played on intensity. We have worked a lot on pressing, on runs.” This tactical focus suggests PSG is preparing for a physically demanding contest.
Bradley Barcola’s recent form – three goals in his last three Ligue 1 matches – will be crucial for PSG as they navigate this challenging tie. The match at Stamford Bridge promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams eager to establish a first-leg advantage.
PSG’s next confirmed match is a Ligue 1 fixture against Lille on March 15th. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of PSG’s Champions League campaign and all the latest developments from the world of football.
