Luis Enrique Explains Why PSG Remain Champions League Favourites Ahead of Arsenal

Luis Enrique insists PSG favourites remain unchanged despite Arsenal perfect Champions League run and a frustrating Newcastle draw

PSG manager Luis Enrique has dismissed Arsenal’s flawless Champions League league-phase run, insisting that PSG are still favourites over Arsenal despite his side’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle United at the Parc des Princes.

Arsenal finished top of the league phase with a 100 percent record under Mikel Arteta, while PSG dropped into the play-off round following the stalemate. Yet Enrique made it clear that league-phase standings do not change his view on who will lift Europe’s biggest prize.

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PSG dominated large spells against Newcastle but failed to convert control into victory. A missed penalty proved costly before the visitors struck just before half-time, shifting momentum in the contest.

Reflecting on the performance, Enrique said his side deserved more from the game but acknowledged the physical challenge posed by Newcastle.

“It was a very good first half. We started positively and created chances. Missing the penalty hurt us, and the equaliser just before half-time was difficult,” Enrique explained.

Despite PSG sitting 11th with 14 points, a full 10 points behind Arsenal, the Spanish coach rejected suggestions that the Gunners now hold the upper hand in Europe.

Paris Saint-Germain Boss Sends Clear Champions League Warning to Arsenal

While Arsenal have emerged as many pundits’ favourites after winning all eight league-phase matches, Enrique remained defiant.

“I don’t see anyone as a bigger favourite than us in the competition,” he stated.
“We can improve and get better results, but we are ready.”

The comments will not go unnoticed in north London, especially given PSG’s recent Champions League history under Enrique.

Last season, PSG also failed to secure a top-eight finish but responded emphatically. They demolished Brest 10-0 on aggregate in the play-offs before knocking out Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal, eventually cruising to a dominant 5-0 final victory over Inter Milan.

That run has strengthened Enrique’s belief that momentum matters more in the knockout stages than early-phase dominance.

What Comes Next for PSG and Arsenal in the Champions League

PSG and Newcastle now await Friday’s draw, with Enrique’s side likely to face Monaco or Qarabag in the play-offs. While the PSG coach admitted improvements are needed, his confidence remained unshaken.

“We need to improve, I accept that. But if any team is ready for the play-offs, it is us.”

For Arsenal, the challenge now shifts to maintaining momentum when the knockout pressure begins. Enrique’s comments underline a familiar warning: Champions League pedigree often outweighs league-phase perfection.

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