Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has playfully promised Ousmane Dembele more holidays after the French forward joked that taking time off had helped him deliver an impressive performance against Manchester City in the Champions League.
The mood around PSG is positive following their important 4-2 victory over Manchester City in midweek, with Luis Enrique appearing relaxed during his latest press conference.
Dembele, alongside Nuno Mendes, was given the weekend off following the international break. PSG subsequently defeated Le Mans without the French international before the forward returned to the squad for their Champions League meeting with Manchester City.
The decision proved successful, as Dembele was available for a match in which PSG overwhelmed their Premier League opponents during the first half before securing a 4-2 victory.
Following the game, Dembele joked that he might need to go on holiday more frequently after seeing how well the arrangement had worked. His comments were subsequently put to Luis Enrique during the manager’s press conference.
Responding with a smile, the PSG boss suggested that the forward could receive additional time off if he wanted it.
He’s the boss! He wants a vacation if we give him a vacation. So he’ll get a vacation. But he jokes around all the time
Luis Enrique said.
The Spanish coach also praised Dembele’s attitude towards football, making it clear that he appreciated the forward’s passion despite the playful nature of his remarks.
I love the way he lives football and his passion for football. It’s a joke, clearly, but I’m always open to giving the players what they want.
The exchange highlighted the positive atmosphere within the PSG camp following their impressive European performance.
PSG’s ability to manage their players’ workloads during domestic fixtures could also prove valuable as they continue competing in the Champions League. Resting key players in Ligue 1 matches allows Luis Enrique to preserve freshness within his squad ahead of demanding European encounters.
Following their victory over Manchester City, PSG will be encouraged by the availability of several important players as they prepare for another significant fixture against the English side.
Elsewhere, Luis Enrique has also discussed the differing levels of media attention that summer signings can receive, while he previously praised Desire Doue for his impressive performances during the international break.
With confidence growing after their midweek success, PSG will hope to maintain their momentum as the Champions League campaign progresses.