Unapologetic and Unbridled: The Luis Enrique Story
Luis Enrique, the enigmatic coach of Paris Saint-Germain, wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s a man who thrives on criticism, often goading the media with provocative statements. In a new documentary series, he lifts the curtain on his first year at PSG, offering a fascinating glimpse into his unorthodox approach to coaching.
A Coach Like No Other
Enrique’s philosophy is built on a foundation of competitiveness and a disdain for mediocrity. He’s unapologetic about his methods, which often involve pushing his players to the limit. His wife, Elena, has grown accustomed to the scrutiny that comes with being married to a high-profile coach, but even she can’t help but feel uneasy at times.
The Xavi Conundrum
One of the most intriguing aspects of the documentary is Enrique’s candid assessment of his former teammate and friend, Xavi Hernández. Despite their shared history at Barcelona, Enrique is scathing in his criticism of Xavi’s coaching style, labeling it “long-ball football.” He’s equally dismissive of Barça’s defensive capabilities, claiming they’re not a team that dominates possession.
Turning the Tables on Barça
Enrique’s PSG faced off against Xavi’s Barça in the Champions League quarterfinals, and the coach’s game plan was instrumental in turning the tie around. He identified Ronald Araújo as a weak link and exploited his passing lanes, while also getting Kylian Mbappé to buy into leading the team defensively. The result was a stunning 4-1 comeback win in the second leg.
Mbappé: The Michael Jordan of Football
Enrique has a unique way of motivating his players, and Mbappé was no exception. He drew parallels between the French star and basketball legend Michael Jordan, urging him to lead by example and defend like a “son of a b—-.” Mbappé’s response was instrumental in PSG’s comeback against Barça, and Enrique believes he has the potential to be a “f—ing machine” on the pitch.
A Fitness Freak with a Purpose
Enrique’s commitment to fitness is borderline obsessive. He exercises every 30 minutes, using benches, tables, and even cold-water plunge pools to stay active. He’s also a proponent of “grounding,” a practice that involves walking barefoot to connect with nature. It’s a quirk that has helped him overcome health issues and maintain his boundless energy.
Life, Loss, and Perspective
The documentary takes a poignant turn when Enrique reflects on the loss of his daughter, Xana, who died of bone cancer aged nine in 2019. It’s a tragedy that puts sporting success and failure into perspective, and Enrique’s words are a powerful reminder of what truly matters in life. Despite his competitiveness, he’s a man who knows that there’s more to life than winning trophies.
A Year of Ups and Downs
Enrique’s first year at PSG was marked by highs and lows, from the thrill of domestic success to the disappointment of European defeat. Through it all, he remained unapologetically himself, refusing to compromise on his values or coaching philosophy. As he looks to the future, one thing is certain – Luis Enrique will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of football.
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