PSG Coach Luis Enrique’s Brutal ‘Past’ Statement On Kylian Mbappe Ahead Of Real Madrid Showdown

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique characterized Wednesday’s Club World Cup semi-final clash against Real Madrid as “special,” but brushed off inquiries regarding his connection with Kylian Mbappe before reuniting with the star forward. “Facing Real Madrid is always a unique match,” PSG’s Spanish manager stated to journalists during a press conference at the MetLife Stadium near New York, where the encounter will occur. “We are thrilled to participate in a game like this as it indicates we have performed well so far.”

PSG came to the United States for the tournament fresh from winning the UEFA Champions League for the first time, in the season following Mbappe’s departure for Real.

Luis Enrique coached Mbappe during his final campaign in Paris, a turbulent year in which the France captain was initially sidelined from the team for refusing to sign a new contract and later used sparingly after making it clear he would depart.

“All I can say is that belongs in the past, it is behind us now,” said Luis Enrique.

“Lots of things make this a special game. This game is important because it is a Club World Cup semi-final. That makes it very interesting and we need to be ready to remain focused on the match.

“We are very close to playing another final and that is a true motivation,” added the coach, who is without defensive duo Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez after both were sent off in the quarter-final win over Bayern Munich.

While PSG are seeking to end a trophy-laden season with even more silverware, the Club World Cup marks the start of a new era for Real under their new coach Xabi Alonso.

“I think it’s very difficult to analyse Real Madrid because Xabi Alonso is just starting his work there,” said Luis Enrique, who is closely associated with Barcelona but also played at the Santiago Bernabeu in the 1990s.

“For me it has always been a pleasure to play against Real Madrid and it always will be.

“They are the most decorated club in the world and Xabi has everything required to take on the challenge.”

Coach Alonso did not address the media on Tuesday after the Spanish team’s flight to New York from their training facility in Florida was postponed because of severe weather.

The victors of Wednesday’s semi-final will move on to the final on Sunday, where Chelsea awaits after the English team triumphed over Fluminense 2-0 in Tuesday’s initial last-four matchup.