PSG coach Luis Enrique has insisted that his team is happy to take the “long route” to the Champions League last 16 after missing out on a top-eight spot.
PSG finished 11th in the league phase with 14 points, 10 points behind leaders Arsenal.
The Spaniard claimed that PSG’s tough run of matches against top European sides has set them up perfectly for the play-off round. “If any team is ready for the play-offs and for whoever we have to play, it is us – when you look at the teams we have played, it is catastrophic,” he said.
PSG’s league phase campaign ended with a 1-1 draw against Newcastle United, with Ousmane Dembele having an early penalty saved and Vitinha putting PSG in front. Joe Willock equalized for Newcastle in first-half injury time.
Luis Enrique acknowledged that PSG need to improve, but believes they’re well-prepared for the play-off round. “We knew it was a possibility that we might have to go into the play-offs. We will have to take the long route, but I don’t think anyone else can be considered favourites more than us.”
PSG had to go through the play-off round last season and went on to win the Champions League. They hammered Brest 10-0 on aggregate, beat Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal, and demolished Inter Milan 5-0 in the final.
The play-off route may be a challenge, but Luis Enrique is confident in his team’s abilities. “We need to improve, I accept that,” he said. “But we’re ready for this.”
