Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has responded to recent comments from Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who appeared to cast doubt on the strength of the French and German leagues.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with PSG on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Arteta suggested that the Premier League’s intensity makes it harder to prepare for European ties. Some interpreted his words as a dig at Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga.
“I don’t think it was a criticism of the French league or the German league,” Enrique said in his pre-match press conference. “I respect all leagues. Every competition has its own difficulty. The Premier League is very competitive, but so is Ligue 1. We have shown that in Europe.”
The Spanish coach pointed to PSG’s record in recent seasons. “We have reached the semi-finals and final of the Champions League in recent years. That proves the level of our league and our team.”
Arteta had earlier stated that Arsenal’s domestic schedule leaves little room for error. “In the Premier League, every game is a battle. You cannot relax for a second. That is not always the case in other leagues,” the Arsenal manager said on Monday, September 30, 2024.
Enrique dismissed any suggestion of a rift between the two managers. “Mikel is a fantastic coach. I have great respect for him and for Arsenal. But I defend my league and my players. The French league is strong, and we are proud to represent it.”
The match at the Emirates Stadium kicks off at 21:00 local time on Tuesday. Both sides are looking to build momentum in the group stage of the 2024-2025 Champions League campaign.
