After Slovan Rout, Hell Awaits in Marseille. Enrique Warns Ahead of Le Classique: No Favorites
PSG managed just two points from their opening three league matches, securing their first victory against Brest (1-0). However, they boosted their confidence with a dominant 6-1 win over Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League. "In football, there are no favorites, and certainly not in Le Classique. This match is incredibly important for us. Given our start to the league season, we not only want three points but also to improve our overall play," stated Luis Enrique.
Marseille, now under new coach Bruno Genesio, saw several key players depart over the summer, including Mason Greenwood, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Quinten Timber. "They've changed coaches and many players have left, so we need to be prepared for any situation. The atmosphere will be electric, and the match will be tough. Our goal is three points," the Spaniard was quoted by DPA.
Enrique also emphasized the unique intensity of the derby: "Le Classique is a different kind of game. We want to play our way, please the fans, and be united. No PSG player can afford to be relaxed before such a match. We know what it means to both players and fans, so we will be maximally motivated, but at the same time, we must control our emotions."
Achraf Hakimi could soon return to the PSG squad, having completed individual training on Friday. The Parisians will also rely on summer signing Ferran Torres, who has six goals across all competitions. Marseille enters Sunday's classic having lost four consecutive matches, most recently falling 4-1 to Besiktas Istanbul in the Europa League. However, in the previous season, they defeated PSG 1-0 at home thanks to an own goal from Marquinhos.