Luis Enrique Dismisses Real Madrid's Pursuit of PSG Superstar with a Laugh

Luis Enrique remains confident about retaining Willian Pacho at Paris Saint-Germain, despite speculation linking the defender with a potential move to Real Madrid.

Following numerous unsuccessful European campaigns, PSG achieved their historic first Champions League triumph. The Parisian club overcame three Premier League sides, including title holders Liverpool, on their path to continental success.

Ousmane Dembélé has emerged as a leading contender for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, while Nuno Mendes is being discussed among the world's elite left-backs, and Vitinha continues receiving acclaim from football's most respected figures.

However, Pacho's contributions have been somewhat underappreciated. The 23-year-old central defender formed a solid partnership with Marquinhos and executed his duties flawlessly during PSG's remarkable quadruple-winning 2024-25 campaign.

Pacho's performances have apparently caught Real Madrid's attention, as the Spanish club seeks to strengthen their defensive options this summer. Los Blancos have already secured Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, but reports suggest they remain keen on acquiring another central defender.

When questioned about Real Madrid's rumored interest in Pacho following PSG's commanding 4-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup, Enrique dismissed the transfer rumors with amusement.

"It's understandable that [Real Madrid] would desire all our players, but extracting talent from Paris Saint-Germain proves challenging," Enrique remarked with a grin.

This comment arrives one year after Kylian Mbappé departed PSG on a free transfer to join Real Madrid. The French striker had to witness his former club claim Champions League glory while he and Los Blancos concluded the season empty-handed. Nevertheless, Mbappé managed to secure both the Pichichi Trophy and European Golden Shoe during his inaugural Madrid campaign.

Should Enrique succeed in his intentions, Pacho will avoid replicating Mbappé's journey to the Spanish capital. The Ecuadorian defender featured in 53 matches across all tournaments during his maiden PSG season, contributing to a defensive record that saw only six goals conceded throughout nine Champions League knockout fixtures.