Paris Saint-Germain have found their rhythm again. Saturday’s 3-1 win over Le Mans at the Parc des Princes was a third straight victory, easing the concern created by an opening three Ligue 1 fixtures without a win.
The French champions now turn towards Manchester City, with Luis Enrique’s side due to travel to England two days later for the second matchday of the Champions League league phase.
Quick facts
- PSG beat Le Mans 3-1 on Saturday at the Parc des Princes.
- The result was Paris’s third consecutive win in all competitions.
- It followed a winless start across the first three Ligue 1 rounds.
- Manchester City await in the Champions League two days after the Le Mans match.
- Luis Enrique says his players must understand situations rather than simply follow orders.
In a lengthy interview, the PSG coach outlined the working principles behind his management. Luis Enrique said he does not want to direct every movement from the touchline, insisting that players must be equipped to make the right choice in changing match situations.
“I do not want to be the kind of coach who is always issuing instructions and telling players exactly what they have to do,” he said. “They need to understand the game so they can make the best decision at every moment. That is the key.”
For the Spaniard, responsibility is shared inside the squad. He wants players to bring their own answers to tactical problems rather than waiting for the bench to resolve everything.
“They must be able to suggest solutions and deal with the different situations they face,” he added. “It cannot be only the coach deciding everything. We move forward together.”
Luis Enrique also described communication as a central part of his job. His approach changes from one player to another, depending on character and timing.
“I like helping players, but I also like challenging them and pushing them to respond,” he said. “I watch what their reaction produces: whether it is positive or negative.”
Some members of the group need encouragement, he explained, while others respond better to a firmer message. Finding the right way to speak to each individual is a process he regards as one of the most absorbing parts of coaching.
“Everything is constantly evolving,” Luis Enrique said. “Our team is the same: it is always moving.”
