Luis Enrique, the Paris Saint-Germain coach, decided to rest his players before the prestigious Classic against the Olympique de Marseille. This measure, which is exceptional given the busy schedule and the few rest periods granted this season, is intended to allow the team to recharge mentally. After a morning of decompression at the training centre, the Spanish coach chose to give his men a break before the trip to Marseille for the first game of the season. The training will resume at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, following the usual instructions, in order to refine the last tactical aspects before this important duel. Luis Enrique should then address the press at 1 p.m. to comment on this long-awaited meeting, stressing the confidence that the Marseilles regained after their victory against Real Madrid, despite a controversial penalty.

A tradition established by Luis Enrique since his arrival at the club is the internal vote of the players to elect the captain and vice-captains. This election took place on Tuesday, on the eve of the team’s participation in the Champions League, after a convincing victory against Atalanta (4-0). Marquinhos was unanimously confirmed as a captain, a role he assumed for the sixth consecutive season and earned him the respect of his teammates. The choice of the vice-captains generated more expectation, following the departures of Presnel Kimpembe and Gianluigi Donnarumma. The vote designated Ashraf Hakimi as the first Vice-Captain, followed by Vitinha and Ousmane Dembélé.

This dynamic of internal leadership reflects the collective spirit and cohesion that prevail in the Paris team. Marquinhos’ choice as captain, confirmed for a sixth year, underscores his legitimacy and influence with his partners. The designation of vice-captains also reflects recognition of each other’s qualities within the group. This tradition, set up by Luis Enrique, reinforces the sense of belonging and shared responsibility within the team, thus contributing to the success of Paris Saint-Germain.