Luis Enrique slams Dembele and Kvaratskhelia after PSG draw with Rennes

Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique delivered sharp criticism of forwards Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia after substituting both at halftime during the team's 2-2 draw with Rennes in their Ligue 1 season opener.

PSG narrowly avoided a second consecutive defeat, coming back from a two-goal deficit at halftime thanks to a brace from substitute Ferran Torres, earning a point away at Rennes in the first round.

Enrique's message to the players

Speaking to Ligue 1 +, Enrique stressed that the team had not secured a win and emphasized the need to avoid complacency. He said: "You have to prove you are ready every day, in every training session and every match, otherwise it is easy to become complacent."

The Spanish coach noted that competition for starting spots is fiercer this season than last, sending a clear message to Dembele: "Places in the lineup are more valuable than last year. We are trying to have the best players in every match, and it is tougher than before."

Praise for Torres and the substitutes

Enrique also praised Ferran Torres, who scored both PSG goals, as well as substitutes Mika Godts, Fabian Ruiz, Maghnes Akliouche, and Lucas Beraldo, highlighting the challenge of managing a team with constant ambitions to win.

He added: "It's true we always say playing in Ligue 1 is easy, but I can't recall any easy away match, and that was evident again today."

It is worth noting that PSG narrowly avoided a second defeat after recently losing the French Super Cup to Lens.