Luis Enrique: It's Important for Us to Protect Our Own Interests

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has stated he "accepts all viewpoints" regarding his club's request to reschedule their Ligue 1 fixture against Lens. Last week, the French Football League approved PSG's plea to move the match, originally set for April 11th, as the team focuses on their Champions League quarter-final clashes against Liverpool. PSG hosts the Reds from Anfield on April 8th and will now enjoy a free weekend before traveling to England for the return leg on the 14th of the month.

However, both Paris Saint-Germain and Lens are vying for the Ligue 1 title, and the capital club's rivals expressed their disapproval of this change in a statement released last week.

Luis Enrique, however, believes the League's decision must be accepted: "Our position is clear. We are defending our club, and I understand there are different viewpoints; that's normal. I accept every differing opinion. I also understand what Lens thinks; that's completely normal. But we must accept what has been decided. We accepted it, and that's life. Of course, everyone has their own interests. It's simply the decision that was made."

PSG returns from the international break on Friday evening with a clash against Toulouse, a mid-table side. Before the league resumed, the Parisians led the standings, just one point ahead of Lens, who had long held the top spot.

The Parisian squad has 8 remaining league matches and continues its Champions League campaign, but Luis Enrique emphasized the importance of securing points.

"The players are very intelligent and understand the specifics of this phase of the season," he said.

"The match against Toulouse is the most important because we need the points. Lens plays against Lille in the derby, so it will be a tough match for them. It's important for us to win. It won't be easy, given Toulouse's quality. But my players are intelligent and know what to do," the Spanish tactician added.

He then confirmed that everyone in the squad is fit, including the international players who have returned to the camp without any issues.

"After training this afternoon, we will assess the physical and mental condition of the players. We need to carefully manage the return from the international break. We know how difficult it is, and April and May will be very busy," Luis Enrique concluded.