'We're Not Out for Revenge,' Says PSG's Barcola Ahead of Chelsea Clash

Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola has made it clear that while emotions may run high, revenge is not the motivation as his side prepares to face Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League round of 16. The matchup marks a rematch of last summer's FIFA Club World Cup final, where the Blues triumphed 3-0, with Cole Palmer scoring twice and assisting Joao Pedro's goal.

Despite the painful memory of that defeat—and the post-match scuffle between PSG head coach Luis Enrique and Chelsea’s Joao Pedro—Barcola emphasized that the current campaign stands on its own.

"We're not out for revenge because this is a different period and a different competition, but we really want to win this double header," said the 23-year-old winger.

"We know that Chelsea are a very good team that plays well, and we know that it'll be tricky, but we've worked hard. We're hungry for wins, so we'll do everything we can to win. I think that we're always capable of going above and beyond, as we've shown on more than one occasion."

PSG's Road to Redemption

Since that Club World Cup setback, PSG have surged to new heights, crowned European champions for the first time in their history at the end of the 2024–25 season. Their dominant form continued into the current campaign, securing progression through the Champions League play-off round with a victory over AS Monaco.

The French champions now find themselves as the top-ranked team in this season’s Champions League for key metrics including average possession (69.7%), build-up attacks per game (7.3), and pass completion rate under high-intensity pressure (85.7%).

Luis Enrique: Pride and Preparation

For head coach Luis Enrique, the upcoming tie carries significant weight—not just for the competition, but for the club’s legacy and connection with its supporters.

"We're preparing in the usual way, and we're highly motivated because we're playing in the world's best club competition," said Enrique. "That's very important to us, and playing at the Parc is always special. Our fans' support is vital to us."

"We're glad to be able to experience these moments with them, and we'll give everything to get a win for them."

Historical Context

The two sides last met in the Champions League during the 2015–16 season, with PSG winning both legs of the round of 16 2-1. With home advantage in the first leg at the Parc des Princes, PSG will look to leverage their tactical discipline and attacking firepower to take control of the tie early.

As both teams gear up for a high-stakes battle, Barcola’s message is clear: this isn’t about settling old scores—it’s about forging a new legacy on the grandest stage of European football.