Paris Saint-Germain will host Barcelona at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday in a high-profile Champions League league-phase encounter between two of the competition’s leading contenders.
Barcelona head into the fixture unbeaten this season, with the Catalan side boasting an impressive scoring record in La Liga and strong form ahead of the European showdown.
However, the reigning champions, PSG, face a difficult test, particularly with several players unavailable for the encounter.
Despite the excitement surrounding the fixture, PSG manager Luis Enrique has rejected suggestions that the meeting amounts to an early Champions League final.
Asked about the description, the Spaniard said: “No! This isn’t a final too soon.”
Enrique acknowledged that both clubs were among the favourites to win the competition but stressed that other teams also had the quality to challenge for the title.
“It’s clear that we’re two favourite teams, but there are more teams that can win the competition,” he said.
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The PSG coach also discussed the challenge of facing Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, recognising the teenager’s importance to the Catalan side.
Enrique believes PSG must control possession and limit Barcelona’s opportunities to get the ball to Yamal in dangerous positions if they are to contain his attacking threat.
The encounter presents a significant test for both sides as they seek to strengthen their Champions League campaigns, with Barcelona’s impressive form set to be tested by the defending champions on their home turf.
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