Luis Enrique takes over as head coach of Paris St-Germain, succeeding Christophe Galtier
Former Spain Manager Luis Enrique Appointed PSG Head Coach
In a puzzling move, Paris St-Germain has announced the appointment of former Spain and Barcelona manager, Luis Enrique, as their new head coach. This surprising decision comes shortly after Christophe Galtier was sacked despite leading the team to victory in the Ligue 1 title during his single season in charge.
Luis Enrique, aged 53 and hailing from Spain, has signed a two-year contract with the French champions. This marks his first role since stepping down as Spain’s manager in December following their defeat by Morocco on penalties in the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup.
Prior to his national team stint, Luis Enrique achieved remarkable success at Barcelona where he won nine trophies over three seasons between 2014 and 2017. His debut campaign saw him secure an impressive treble consisting of the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey titles.
The Spanish tactician inherits a Paris Saint-Germain squad undergoing transition amidst speculation surrounding star players Kylian Mbappe and Neymar following Lionel Messi’s departure to Inter Miami. The club’s Qatari owners are determined to shift focus towards building a team rather than relying solely on high-profile signings that have failed to deliver desired Champions League success so far.
Last season started promisingly under Galtier with an unbeaten streak spanning over 22 games; however, it ended disappointingly for PSG who suffered defeats against Marseille in the French Cup’s last-16 stage, and Bayern Munich in the same stage of the Champions League. Their league form also faltered as they narrowly clinched the Ligue 1 title, finishing just one point ahead of runners-up Lens.
Aside from his managerial achievements, Luis Enrique enjoyed a successful playing career with both Real Madrid and Barcelona. He now faces the challenge of revitalizing PSG and guiding them towards their ultimate goal – European glory.