Rosenior Praises PSG Quality Ahead of Champions League Clash
PARIS – Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has publicly lauded Paris Saint-Germain as a “world-class” team ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League round of 16 first leg at the Parc des Princes. Despite recent criticism surrounding the French champions, Rosenior emphasized the enduring quality of PSG’s squad, coaching staff, and overall organization. The match marks a quick return to France for Rosenior, just two months after departing his role at Strasbourg.
Rosenior, appointed by Chelsea in January, spoke highly of PSG’s performance last season, recalling a period where he witnessed firsthand their capabilities while managing Strasbourg. He acknowledged the cyclical nature of football, noting that success often invites scrutiny during downturns, but maintained his belief in PSG’s fundamental strength. “The PSG was so strong last year, I saw a football that I admired,” Rosenior said in a pre-match press conference. “When you have success, people then aim for to find an opportunity to criticize when things are not going so well, but the quality of the team, the coach, the players, is world class.”
A Familiar Foe, A Novel Challenge
This Champions League tie renews a rivalry between Chelsea and PSG that has unfolded over the past decade, with several memorable encounters in the knockout stages. From 2014 to 2016, the clubs met in three consecutive Champions League seasons, with Chelsea winning a quarter-final clash but falling to PSG in the last 16 in the subsequent two years. More recently, the two sides faced off in the Club World Cup final last July, a match Chelsea won 3-0, though Rosenior downplayed the relevance of that result given the differing circumstances.
“I do remember it, it was in my front room back in Derby,” Rosenior said, recalling watching the Club World Cup final. “It was a great game, an outstanding performance from the guys on the day. But in terms of the relevance for now, I don’t think it has much relevance. The context is completely different. It’s something that we need to focus on the now and not focus on the past.”
Rosenior’s Strasbourg Experience
Rosenior’s appointment at Chelsea followed an 18-month tenure at Strasbourg, where he earned recognition for developing a young, possession-based, and high-pressing team. His Strasbourg side were one of only two teams to defeat PSG in Ligue 1 last season, securing a 2-1 victory after PSG had already clinched the league title. They as well managed a 3-3 draw at the Parc des Princes in October, leading 3-1 at one point. Rosenior described PSG as “the best team in the world” at the time.
The success Rosenior built at Strasbourg has been continued by his successor, Gary O’Neil, who has guided the team to the French Cup semi-finals. Rosenior’s ability to cultivate a sophisticated playing style with a youthful squad – almost entirely comprised of players aged 23 or under – is a hallmark of his managerial approach, and something he will aim to implement at Chelsea.
Tactical Outlook and What to Expect
While acknowledging PSG’s quality, Rosenior anticipates a difficult tactical battle. “I’m expecting a extremely difficult challenge, tactical, physical, technical,” he stated. He also expressed excitement about the prospect of a match between two young teams with distinct identities and playing styles. Chelsea will likely focus on maintaining a compact defensive shape and attempting to exploit any vulnerabilities in PSG’s midfield. The Blues’ pressing game, honed under Rosenior, will be crucial in disrupting PSG’s build-up play.
Chelsea’s Malo Gusto also emphasized the importance of leveraging their previous victory over PSG. “Yes, we won against them and it wasn’t simple, we must use it as an advantage tomorrow,” Gusto said.
Looking Ahead
The first leg in Paris sets the stage for a crucial return fixture at Stamford Bridge. The outcome of this tie will have significant implications for both clubs’ Champions League ambitions. Chelsea, under Rosenior, are looking to establish themselves as a force in European football, while PSG will be determined to defend their title and continue their pursuit of Champions League glory.
Following Wednesday’s match, Chelsea returns to Premier League action on March 15th against Brentford at Stamford Bridge. PSG will face Monaco in Ligue 1 on March 17th.
The Champions League clash promises to be a captivating encounter between two ambitious teams, with Rosenior’s respect for PSG adding another layer of intrigue to the contest.
