Wed Nov 06 19:45:06 UTC 2024: ## PSG Coach Praises Simeone Ahead of Champions League Clash

**PARIS** – PSG coach Luis Enrique has heaped praise on his former LaLiga rival Diego Simeone, manager of Atlético Madrid, ahead of their Champions League clash on Wednesday. Both teams have had a shaky start to the new Champions League format, with only one win each after three games.

A home victory for PSG, currently in 19th place with four points, would be a much-needed boost. Atlético, languishing in 27th place with three points, are looking to rebound after consecutive losses.

Despite never having faced Atlético in the European Cup, Luis Enrique’s Barcelona side, which he managed from 2014 to 2017, defeated Simeone’s Atlético nine times in their 14 meetings.

“I admire Simeone,” Enrique told reporters Tuesday. “When a coach can stay for so many years at a top club, it means he is great because that is such a difficult thing to do.”

Simeone has managed Atlético for 13 years, guiding them to two LaLiga and two Europa League titles. Interestingly, Atlético had considered hiring Luis Enrique before ultimately sticking with Simeone.

“I had given my word to another club,” Enrique added. “If I had gone to Atleti, I would not have stayed half as long as Simeone because I don’t have the energy as him.”

The Spaniard expressed satisfaction with PSG’s recent performances, arguing their results have been undeserved.

“I would settle for repeating the statistics obtained in our draw with PSV Eindhoven (1-1) and win against Girona (1-0), with different results,” he said.

PSG, without their former star Kylian Mbappé who joined Real Madrid in the offseason, have only scored two goals in their three Champions League games. However, Luis Enrique remains confident.

“I have no doubt we can improve in defense and attack,” he said. “I understand you want to discuss individual players, but we analyse things from a broader perspective.”

The goalkeeper situation remains uncertain. While Gianluigi Donnarumma has made costly mistakes recently, newcomer Matvey Safonov might get the nod. “You will find out tomorrow,” Enrique playfully hinted. “After a good cup of cappuccino, I will decide who the goalkeeper is.”

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