Luis Enrique on possibility of facing Barcelona in UCL: ‘The club is very special to me’

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has talked about the possibility of facing Barcelona after guiding his side into the UEFA Champions League round of 16.

Despite winning the first leg of their playoff tie 3-2 against Monaco, the French champions were pushed hard in the return fixture at the Parc des Princes, where a 2-2 draw was enough to seal qualification. 

Speaking after the match, Luis Enrique admitted that progression was far from comfortable. 

“We suffered a lot,” he began.

The UCL draw

Now attention turns to Friday’s draw in Nyon, where PSG will be paired with either FC Barcelona or Chelsea. 

When asked about the potential opponents, Luis Enrique was clear that neither scenario would offer an easy route forward. “Neither will be easy.”

The possibility of facing Barcelona again carries extra meaning for the former Barça player and coach. 

This is because Enrique has deep ties with the Catalan club and has experienced high-pressure European nights from both sides.

Barcelona could either face PSG or Newcastle United. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Reflecting on what a reunion would mean, he explained, “As it’s not up to me, I’ll adapt to whatever happens. They are two incredible teams. 

“Barça is very special to me and is already becoming a classic for me. As is the case with Manchester City and Real Madrid. 

“Barcelona is a unique city and the club is special. And if we face Chelsea, we’ll have a few things to correct.”

As such, recent history between PSG and Barcelona has not been kind to the Catalan team. 

This is because the Parisian side eliminated Barça in the round of 16 in 2021 and again in the quarterfinals in 2024. 

Earlier this season, PSG also recorded a commanding 1-4 victory at Montjuic during the league phase.