Since the start of his managerial career, Luis Enrique’s relationship with the media – whether Spanish or French – has not necessarily always been a smooth one.
The Asturian notably spoke of his distaste for media duties in an extract from a recent behind-the-scenes documentary for Spanish platform Movistar, in which he explained that he would be willing to give up a quarter of his salary in order to avoid speaking with the press.
In his press conference this afternoon ahead of PSG’s clash against Rennes on Friday night, the Spaniard reiterated that sentiment – even if he did reassure the jounalists in the room that he enjoyed speaking to them:
“I have a great time with you all, I get on well with the press. But if the choice was left up to me, I would have no issue with it. But I’ve never cut a press conference short, I say what I have to say, and sometimes in other languages – not very well, but I do it.”
“It was a spontaneous comment, and it’s true – if right now you were to hand me a piece of paper that said I wouldn’t have to speak to the press anymore in return for giving up 25%, or even 50%, of my salary, then I would sign it. But it wouldn’t be possible, because the contracts that the clubs have signed include an obligation for managers to speak. Personally, I enjoy it, but if I could avoid it I would – especially post-match interviews, when I don’t really have the energy. I’ll say it again, though, I have a good time with you guys.”
GFFN | Raphaël Jucobin
