Paris, May 24, 2024 — Paris St-Germain manager Luis Enrique remains cautious as his team prepares for the Coupe de France final against a resurgent Olympique Lyonnais on Saturday. While PSG aims to secure a domestic treble, Enrique acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by Lyon, who have undergone a remarkable transformation under new manager Pierre Sage.
PSG, having clinched the Ligue 1 title for the third consecutive year and secured the French Super Cup in January, now sets its sights on the Coupe de France. Lyon, on the other hand, endured a tough start to the season, going winless in their first ten games. However, since Sage took the helm in November, they have achieved an impressive turnaround, winning 20 out of 27 matches.
"I think Pierre Sage has won 20 games out of 27. They have incredible statistics. He turned it around for a team that started with many difficulties," Enrique said on Friday. "Next season they will certainly be competing for the title with us. They are a top opponent and we are ready."
Despite PSG's dominance over Lyon in the league this season, with 4-1 victories both home and away, Enrique insists that past results are no reason for complacency. "They are very dangerous on the ball and can hurt any team. They also created chances against us. So it is going to be a really tough final," he added.
Lyon's resurgence saw them finish sixth in Ligue 1, earning a spot in next season's Europa League and reaching their first Coupe de France final since 2012.
Saturday's final also marks the farewell appearance of Kylian Mbappe, PSG's all-time top scorer, who will leave the club after seven years. "Of course, he will start," Enrique confirmed, despite Mbappe being used sparingly since announcing his departure.
"PSG have a special relationship with the Coupe de France. The fans really care about it. The club has won it 14 times... (winning) it would be the perfect way to end the season," Enrique noted.
