Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique is facing increased scrutiny despite leading the club to a historic Champions League title last season. The recent form of the team has drawn criticism, even from supporters of their fierce rivals, Olympique de Marseille. This surprising show of support highlights the respect Enrique has earned, even across the Parisian divide.
Enrique achieved what no other manager had before – bringing the Champions League trophy to Paris. However, that success hasn’t granted him immunity from criticism. PSG’s performances earlier in the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season were inconsistent, culminating in a 3-1 defeat at home to AS Monaco on February 8, 2026. The team’s struggles have led to questions about Enrique’s leadership and tactical decisions as they prepare for a crucial Champions League tie.
“How can you criticize the coach who brought Parisians to the top of the Olympus?”
As PSG prepares to host Chelsea at the Parc des Princes for the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 match on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, pressure is mounting on Enrique. However, an unlikely voice has emerged in his defense: former Olympique de Marseille player Eric Di Meco. Di Meco questioned the swiftness with which some are now criticizing a manager who delivered the club’s long-awaited Champions League triumph. “How can you criticize the coach who brought the Parisians to the top of the Olympus and gave you the joy you had been waiting for for years?” Di Meco asked on RMC, as reported by several sources.
“I’m not saying the credit is unlimited, but…”
Di Meco continued, expressing hope that PSG supporters wouldn’t show ingratitude after all Enrique has accomplished. “I hope you won’t have the ingratitude to criticize him after everything he has done!” he stated. The former Marseille defender, a Champions League winner himself in 1993, acknowledged Enrique’s responsibilities, suggesting he could have pushed for more recruitment to provide additional solutions. However, he also emphasized mitigating circumstances. “Of course, he will have responsibilities and one of them is perhaps not having forced management to recruit a little more to bring solutions. But he has mitigating circumstances. I’m not saying the credit is unlimited, but you shouldn’t forget what he has given to Paris.”
The situation highlights the complex dynamic within French football. While PSG consistently dominates Ligue 1, the club’s ultimate goal remains Champions League success. The pressure to deliver, coupled with the high expectations of the club’s ownership and fanbase, creates a challenging environment for any manager. Enrique’s arrival was met with optimism and his Champions League victory initially shielded him from criticism. However, recent results have raised questions about the team’s consistency and tactical approach.
The upcoming match against Chelsea represents a significant test for both Enrique and PSG. A positive result would alleviate some of the pressure and reaffirm the team’s status as a European powerhouse. A defeat, however, could intensify the scrutiny and potentially jeopardize Enrique’s position. The tactical battle between Enrique and Chelsea’s manager will be closely watched, with analysts examining how each coach approaches the game and adapts to their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.
Adding to the complexity, security concerns are reportedly limiting Enrique’s planning ahead of the Marseille derby, according to World Soccer Talk. This adds another layer of challenge for the PSG manager as he prepares his team for a series of high-stakes matches.
The support from Di Meco, a figure synonymous with Marseille, is a testament to Enrique’s accomplishments and the respect he commands within the football community. It also serves as a reminder that even in the fiercest of rivalries, there is an appreciation for excellence. As PSG navigates this challenging period, the team will need to rely on its quality, tactical flexibility, and the unwavering support of its fans – and perhaps, even a few unexpected voices from across the Parisian divide.
PSG will next face Chelsea in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 8:00 PM CET (7:00 PM GMT). Fans can follow the match live on beIN SPORTS and other major sports broadcasters.
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