Luis Enrique, coach of Paris Saint-Germain, made statements that did not go unnoticed ahead of the match against Seattle Sounders, for the third round of Group B of the Club World Cup. The Spaniard valued the talent of South American soccer, although he also offered a criticism about the perspective that, in his view, the region has regarding Europe.
"South American soccer is clearly a world powerhouse, but I don't understand why Brazilians, Argentinians, and South Americans worry so much about whether they're better than Europeans," he stated at a press conference.
The former Spain national team coach and former Barcelona manager emphasized that European clubs are full of stars from this part of the world. "All European teams want Brazilian, Argentinian, Mexican, and American players. They're full. There are 154 Brazilians, I don't know how many Argentinians," he listed.
Although he clarified that he doesn't question South American talent, Luis Enrique criticized what he interprets as a constant search for comparison with Europe. "Players go to Europe to play for the best teams. I see them very concerned about that and I don't understand them," he said.
The statements came on the eve of a key match for PSG, which will seek to secure its place in the round of 16 against Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field, in a Club World Cup that has offered several surprises since its start.
Luis Enrique doesn't rule out coaching River or Boca
Hours before the surprising defeat to Botafogo, the Spanish coach spoke about the level of South American teams and did not deny a possible foray into soccer on this side of the world. "In South America there are clubs with a lot of history. The passion that surrounds clubs like Boca, River, Botafogo, Santos, Palmeiras. It could be. I won't close the door because you never know and I'm open to everything," he assured.
