Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al Khelaifi did not hide the anticipation surrounding the upcoming clash with FC Barcelona in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League. The matchup carries extra weight as Luis Enrique Martínez faces the club he once led to European glory, now as coach of the reigning champions.

Why Is PSG vs Barcelona So Special?

The encounter will be another reunion between Luis Enrique and Barcelona, where he lifted the Champions League trophy in 2015. The Spanish coach already faced his former team two seasons ago, when PSG eliminated Barça in the quarterfinals under then-coach Xavi Hernández.

“Everyone is waiting for this match. It’s a magnificent game between two great clubs. We respect Barcelona a lot because it is a great club, but so are we. Last season we eliminated them,” Al Khelaifi reminded reporters.

What Did Al Khelaifi Say About PSG’s Present?

The PSG president shifted focus to the current campaign, stressing the importance of consistency and humility despite last season’s triumph:

“We are thinking about this season. Confidence without hard work means nothing, and that’s why we go game by game. We were champions last season, but now we only think about this one.”

With these words, Al Khelaifi underlined PSG’s determination to build on their success rather than dwell on past achievements.

Who Are PSG’s Rivals in the League Phase?

The Parisians, guided by Luis Enrique, landed in one of the toughest groups of the new Champions League format, facing multiple giants and contenders:

• FC Barcelona (Spain)
• Athletic Club (Spain)
• Bayern Munich (Germany)
• Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)
• Sporting CP (Portugal)
• Tottenham Hotspur (England)
• Newcastle United (England)

“This is the best club competition in the world, with the best teams. It’s always difficult. That’s why we will take it one match at a time,” Al Khelaifi concluded.

The Most Anticipated Clash

The duel against Barcelona stands out as one of the marquee fixtures of the 2025/26 Champions League. Beyond the historical rivalry, it will pit the reigning champions against a side eager to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite.