This Wednesday evening at 9 p.m., league leaders Paris Saint-Germain travel to face second-placed Lens at Stade Bollaert for a rescheduled Ligue 1 fixture. During a pre-match press conference, Lens forward Florian Thauvin shared his perspective on this high-profile encounter, his physical recovery, and his hopes for the France national team.
Thauvin: “We are going to play a great game of football together”
Is the motivation different now compared to a month ago? What is at stake?
If you cannot find the drive to play against Paris Saint-Germain, then it might be time to walk away from the sport. It is a significant match, even if the final league standings are becoming clear. This is a battle between the top two teams, fueled by our passion, and we are committed to delivering a high-quality performance together.
Did the rescheduling of this match affect the squad’s mindset?
While the timing of the decision caused plenty of debate, there is no point in dwelling on it now. We cannot alter the past. Our concentration is entirely on the game tomorrow. It remains a prestigious and vital fixture, and we intend to stay disciplined and focused on the task at hand.
Thauvin: “Holding back would be a mistake”
How are you feeling physically? Are you back to full strength?
Yes, I am back to 100%. I had some minor adductor issues, so we took precautions to ensure I was ready for these crucial end-of-season matches. I have had the chance to recover and train hard, and I am now in peak condition to finish the campaign strongly.
Is it difficult to focus on anything other than the upcoming final? Is Ligue 1 just a warm-up?
The final is certainly on our minds, but our job is to remain professional for every single match. While we know where we stand in the table, these games are vital for our preparation. It would be a dangerous trap to not give our all. We need to maintain our rhythm and tactical clarity heading into the final.
Do you believe you can secure a spot in the France national team squad? Could this match influence the decision?
I believe Didier Deschamps already has a clear vision for his squad. My responsibility is to continue performing at a high level until the very end, just as I have tried to do throughout this season.
Thauvin: “I recognize how fortunate I am to be part of this squad”
Have you received a preliminary call-up or any news about an expanded squad list?
I am included in the preliminary list, though I haven’t heard anything regarding an expansion of the squad. This has been the case for nearly two years now, so it is a familiar situation for me.
How does it feel to be named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year?
It is a moment of great pride to be recognized in the league’s best eleven. It represents a lot of hard work coming to fruition. I am thrilled, and it confirms that my decision to join this club was the right one. While it is an individual honor, I owe it to my teammates. Many of them deserved to be there too. Individual expression is only possible through a strong collective, and I am very aware of how much my teammates have helped me.
Will you still be with the club next season?
That is already confirmed. Our medium-term goal included qualifying for European competition this year. I am very happy here in Lens and proud of what we have achieved as a group. Playing in the Champions League at our own stadium will be an incredible experience. I couldn’t be happier.
Are these matches against top sides like Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon ideal for regaining momentum?
Absolutely. You couldn’t ask for better preparation for a final than facing such high-caliber opponents. These games feel like finals themselves because of the quality of the teams involved.
