🎙️ “This won’t be a formality” – Respect given where it’s due
Luis Enrique made clear to the press on July 11, 2025, that PSG cannot afford to underestimate Chelsea, dismissing any notion of an easy win . He lauded Chelsea as “a complete team” under Enzo Maresca and insisted the final demands absolute focus, not complacency .
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⚡ Advantage #1: Chelse a’s relentless physical intensity & pressing
Luis Enrique singled out Chelsea’s tireless engine and high-pressure approach. He admitted analyzing their style and being impressed: “They press really well… they are very complete” . Their frontline force—runners like Cole Palmer and João Pedro—complement a midfield that never stops hustling .
Why it matters:
PSG thrives on controlling the ball, but Chelsea’s intensity could disrupt that rhythm—forcing mistakes, turnovers, and causing fatigue. Enrique knows well that relentless pressing can turn possession into pressure, and that could shape the final’s flow.
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🛡️ Advantage #2: Defensive resilience & collective balance
Enrique praised Chelsea as not only balanced but defensively strong. Describing them as a “complete team,” he acknowledged their solidity across the pitch .
The impact:
Chelsea’s willingness to defend under pressure makes them dangerous in transitions. They’re unlikely to crumble under PSG’s pressing, and the Blues’ young defense has grown tough-minded under Maresca’s guidance.
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🎯 Advantage #3: Unpredictable tactical approach & squad versatility
Chelsea offer flexibility—Maressca’s 4‑2‑3‑1 can morph their setup, especially if Moisés Caicedo recovers fitness . Enrique respects this versatility, noting they have “talented individuals” capable of adapting to PG’s tactics .
Why it matters:
PSG can prepare for a standard system, but Chelsea’s tactical shifts and variable front-line combinations (Palmer, João Pedro, Delap) could pull PSG out of formation. Enrique knows that surprises in lineup and shape mean more adjustments mid-game.
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🔚 Wrap‑up: A Final of Equals
This isn’t a friendly warm-up for PSG. Enrique has laid bare Chelsea’s three clear edges—physical intensity, defensive solidity, and tactical unpredictability—to make his squad wary. Despite PSG’s astonishing season, winning a quadruple hinges on rising to this challenge .
Let’s be clear—PSG built their campaign on collective genius. They’ve dominated Europe, and they believe in themselves. But against a prepared, hungry Chelsea side, Luis Enrique’s warning is simple and stark: “This is not a formality.”
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📝 Key Takeaways
PSG remains clinical, efficient, and confident—but not complacent.
Chelsea’s pressing, defense, and flexible tactics earn genuine respect from Enrique.
Sunday is more than a finale—it’s a strategic duel, a test of wills and systems.
PSG vs. Chelsea won’t just crown a champion. It’ll define who handles pressure, who adapts fastest, and who wants history
more. Get your popcorn—this final promises fireworks.