PSG coach Luis Enrique says the best way to stop Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal is to keep the ball away from Barça altogether. Speaking at Monday's pre-game news conference, he admitted that goal would be difficult to achieve against a side of Barcelona's quality, and stressed that defending as a team is essential.
Yamal, 19, has been in outstanding form this season, scoring nine goals and providing 10 assists as Barça have won all 11 of their matches in all competitions. Since bursting onto the scene at 15, he has often been compared to Lionel Messi, who coached Luis Enrique's former side and whom Yamal now replaces in the No.10 shirt. Luis Enrique cautioned against that comparison, saying Yamal wants to be himself and is improving in every aspect of his game.
Mendes will miss the fixture through injury, meaning Yamal is likely to face Lucas Digne. Luis Enrique also pointed to Raphinha and Pedri as major threats, noting there are many top players in the Barcelona side.
Tuesday's clash at the Parc des Princes pits back-to-back European champions PSG against La Liga leaders Barcelona, who have scored a remarkable 48 goals this season. Luis Enrique downplayed the result's significance, noting that only three points are at stake and that the competition's true contenders will emerge in April. Despite his long history with Barça, he said he would set that aside and admitted he would love to be the first team to beat them this season.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing