Frank Christian
PSG is in Atlanta not for a nostalgic visit, but to secure a victory.
On June 29, the current European champions will step onto the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with no time for feelings, even as they encounter familiar opponents.
Legends like Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, and Javier Mascherano—who once shone in Barcelona’s glory days under Luis Enrique—now represent Inter Miami.
For Enrique, nostalgia is secondary to survival.
PSG has advanced to the knockout stage of the expanded Club World Cup after leading Group B, following a commanding 4-0 victory over Atletico Madrid and favorable outcomes in other matches.
The team showcased impressive football during the group phase, boasting an average possession of 73 percent and achieving two clean sheets out of three games, with six players finding the net.
This season, PSG has already accomplished a remarkable treble, clinching titles in Ligue 1, the Champions League, and the Coupe de France.
Luis Enrique issues a warning
Preceding the matchup, Enrique expressed admiration for Messi, while delivering a serious caution to his team.
“In my opinion, Lionel Messi is undoubtedly the greatest football player of all time,” Enrique informed the press.
“Messi’s peak performance has spanned 10 to 15 years, establishing him as the standard for greatness. His sustained excellence while competing intensely every few days is remarkable. I’ve witnessed him perform astonishing feats in practice that seem otherworldly.”
However, this admiration was accompanied by a tactical warning.
“Stopping Messi requires more than just one player,”
“Collective defense is essential. Every player must be prepared to defend, and everyone must be able to control, pass, and retain the ball.”
Inter Miami remains unbeaten in the tournament, finishing second in Group A just behind Palmeiras, with Messi’s free-kick against Porto being pivotal to their success.
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