"We’re playing with a rabbit, not a ball" – Luis Enrique comments on pitch conditions in the US

The Parisian coach was categorically dissatisfied with the state of the pitch at Lumen Field.

Details: Yesterday, a match took place between the Seattle Sounders and PSG as part of Group B in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Despite PSG’s confident 2-0 victory, the head coach of the Parisians was highly critical of the pitch preparation:

"I can’t imagine an NBA court full of holes. What concerns me most is the condition of the playing field—and I’m saying this on a day when we won. The ball bounces around so much, it’s like we’re playing with a rabbit instead of a ball.

Lumen Field is a striking example: it used to have artificial turf, but now there’s natural grass that has to be watered manually. They did it at halftime, but the pitch dried out again within ten minutes.

For our style of play, this is a problem. It’s very different from European pitches. The grass is different, and that makes it harder to ensure the same fluidity in our game. Still, we adapted well and are very satisfied.

Of course, this is a tournament where you have to be ready to play in Atlanta, Philadelphia, or anywhere else. We plan to go as far as possible, and I believe the players are ready. The real competition starts now, and it will be very tough. After every match, we’ll have to see if we’ve advanced or not. We’re motivated!" said Enrique.

Enrique’s side have earned 6 points in the group and advanced to the Club World Cup round of 16 as group winners. In the next round, the Parisians will face Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi. The match will take place this Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Arena.

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