Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique made clear to his players that he wanted them to target one member of Barcelona’s backline when out of possession, in the European tie between the clubs last season.
Barca and PSG, of course, were pitted against one another in the quarter-finals of the Champions League in 2023/24.
When all was said and done, it was the latter who emerged triumphant, owing to a 4-1 2nd leg triumph in Catalunya’s capital.
The tie was essentially decided by one moment, when Ronald Araújo was given his marching orders after just half an hour at Montjuïc.
And though it was a defensive mistake on the part of the Uruguayan which ultimately cost Barcelona dear, PSG boss Luis Enrique had actually already instructed his players to target Araújo when the defender was in possession.
In footage released as part of the ‘You have no idea’ documentary (cited by Diario Sport), one-time Barca tactician Enrique was heard in the dressing room, outlining:
“Araújo is a top player, but he is the one who has the most problems with the ball coming out. Every time he receives the ball, we block a passing line and we are in.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
