PSG Must Manage Emotions Ahead Of Le Classique Against Marseille, Says Luis Enrique

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Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are gearing up for a crucial clash against Marseille at the Orange Velodrome. Luis Enrique, PSG's manager, believes his team doesn't need extra motivation for this encounter. They are returning to Ligue 1 after a draw with PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League. Despite remaining unbeaten against Dutch teams, PSG currently sit 19th in the league standings after three matches.

In Ligue 1, PSG have shown impressive form, winning six out of eight games and leading the table on goal difference ahead of Monaco. However, Luis Enrique emphasised that past performances mean little in such high-stakes matches. He expects an emotional game and stressed the importance of controlling emotions. "With this type of match, it doesn't matter what you've done before," he stated.

The upcoming match will be the 108th meeting between these two sides across all competitions. PSG have emerged victorious in 50 of those encounters, while Marseille have won 34 times, with 23 matches ending in draws. This weekend's fixture promises to be another intense chapter in their rivalry.

Marseille boast a strong home record, losing only once in their last 20 Ligue 1 home games (11 wins and eight draws). That sole defeat was against PSG in March when they lost 2-0. Meanwhile, PSG have not lost any of their last 28 away matches in Ligue 1 (21 wins and seven draws), marking the longest unbeaten away streak in the competition's history.

Luis Enrique anticipates a challenging match at the Velodrome, especially against Roberto De Zerbi's side. De Zerbi impressed Enrique during his time at Brighton with his attacking style. "For me, De Zerbi is an exciting coach that I followed at Brighton," Enrique remarked.

Enrique praised De Zerbi's approach to football and his ability to inspire players. "He is a coach who likes to attack; we have that in common," Enrique said. He admired how De Zerbi aims to dominate games and hopes not to enjoy watching his tactics as much this time around.

Despite their current standing five points ahead compared to last year, Enrique remains cautious about overconfidence. He noted that both AS Monaco and Marseille are performing at a different level this season. The competition keeps players motivated and focused on maintaining their lead.

This highly anticipated match will test both teams' strengths and strategies as they vie for dominance in Ligue 1. With both clubs having much at stake, fans can expect an electrifying showdown at the Velodrome.