Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has hit back at media critics while expressing full confidence in his team’s growth ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash against Arsenal. Speaking ahead of the first leg, Enrique was bullish about PSG’s development and dismissive of suggestions questioning his coaching credentials.

Reflecting on PSG’s journey this season, Enrique pointed to significant achievements that demonstrate the team's progress. Since their 2-0 loss to Arsenal in the group stage back in October, PSG have gone on to win their fourth consecutive Ligue 1 title, secure a place in the French Cup final, and eliminate Premier League heavyweights Liverpool and Aston Villa to reach the Champions League semifinals.

While acknowledging Arsenal’s consistency notably their dominant 5-1 aggregate win over Real Madrid in the quarter-finals Enrique emphasized that both clubs share a powerful ambition: to lift the Champions League trophy for the first time. He stressed the importance of managing pressure and staying mentally sharp over the two-legged tie.

When asked about doubts raised in the media regarding his coaching abilities, Enrique responded sharply, lacing his reply with irony. "Do you think they handed me my coaching license as a gift?" he remarked, underscoring that all four semi-finalists fully deserve their places in Europe's elite competition. Enrique made it clear that while he respects the quality of the other teams, his loyalty and confidence lie firmly with his own squad.

PSG head into the semi-finals on the back of a surprise 3-1 home defeat to Nice, which ended their unbeaten run in Ligue 1. However, Enrique dismissed any notion that the loss had dented their confidence. He praised his players’ attacking efforts during the match and credited the result to an exceptional performance by the opposition’s goalkeeper, rather than a poor showing by his team.

As PSG prepare for one of the most pivotal matches of their season, Luis Enrique's message is clear: criticism will not distract him or his players from their mission. Instead, the Spanish coach is focused on harnessing the team's growth, resilience, and hunger as they aim to finally capture the elusive Champions League title.