Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique conceded that Arsenal exhibited greater hunger and skill during their 2-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium. Goals from Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz helped the Gunners maintain their undefeated start in the revamped Champions League, with PSG struggling to keep up throughout the match.
After the game, Enrique acknowledged Arsenal’s superiority in every aspect of the contest and appeared to criticize the lack of drive and effort from his players.
In his post-match remarks, Luis Enrique expressed his disappointment, highlighting how Arsenal dominated the game in terms of energy and competitiveness. “Today, we fell well below the standards required for a game like this. Arsenal were much better in pressing, intensity, and won every one-on-one battle,” Enrique told reporters.
He added that PSG’s inability to win duels on the field made it impossible to achieve a positive result. Arsenal’s defense consistently anticipated PSG’s offensive moves, while PSG’s defenders struggled to do the same. “Arsenal were superior,” Enrique stated, summing up his assessment of the performance.
PSG came into the match unbeaten in all competitions this season but failed to rise to the challenge in what was arguably their toughest test to date. The French side has yet to face Ligue 1 rivals Monaco or Marseille, and this defeat raised questions about their readiness for the highest level of competition.
Reflecting on his team’s current form, Enrique admitted uncertainty about where PSG truly stands. “I can’t properly evaluate the level of our team right now; we will have to wait until the end of the season,” he said. The Spanish coach noted that the encounter with Arsenal was their first major challenge at this level and revealed that his team struggled to deal with Arsenal’s high press and relentless aggression.
Enrique acknowledged that the contrasting timelines of both teams could also be a factor. He pointed out that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has had five years to build his squad, while he has been at PSG for just over a year. “I have a clear vision of where I want us to be, but I don’t know how much time I will need to get there,” Enrique remarked.
PSG will next face PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, while Arsenal is set to meet Shakhtar Donetsk, as both teams look to continue their European campaigns.
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