As the 21:00 kickoff approaches this Wednesday, the anticipation builds at Stade Bollaert in Lens. The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) — current top of the Ligue 1 table — will face the Lens squad in a high-stakes matchup, rescheduled from the 29th matchday of the 2025-2026 season. In the lead-up, Lens winger Florian Thauvin (33) shared his thoughts on the upcoming duel, the challenges of facing PSG, and his aspirations with the France national team.
Thauvin: “We’ll go all out for a beautiful football match.”
Is the motivation the same as it would have been months ago?
If you’re not excited to play against PSG, you should probably hang up your boots. This isn’t just another game — it’s a battle between the league’s top two sides. Our passion drives us, and we’ll give it everything to deliver a spectacle on the pitch.
Has the postponement affected your mindset?
The debate around fixture rescheduling has been intense, but it’s time to move forward. We can’t change the past, so we’re focusing entirely on the task ahead. This remains a prestige clash, and we’ll stay locked in without unnecessary distractions.
Thauvin: “Holding back would be a mistake.”
Are you fully fit for the game?
Absolutely. I’ve had some niggling issues with my adductors, so we took precautions for crucial matches. Now, I’m back at 100%, refreshed, and ready to perform at my best for the team.
Is there room to think about bigger goals beyond this match?
The season’s finale is always on our minds, but our job is to stay focused match by match. We know our standing, but every game is preparation. Going into a game half-hearted would be a trap. We need intensity, rhythm, and clarity.
Could this performance boost your chances with the France squad?
Didier Deschamps has a clear vision, as he’s mentioned before. My role is to keep delivering consistently until the season’s end — just like I’ve done since day one.
Thauvin: “I’m grateful to be part of this team.”
Have you received a pre-call-up to the France squad?
I’m included in the pre-call-up list, though details about the expanded squad remain unclear. It’s not new — this has been the case for nearly two years now.
How does it feel to be named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year?
It’s an incredible honor. This recognition reflects a lot of hard work, and it’s made my decision to join Lens even more rewarding. While it’s a personal achievement, I owe it to my teammates. They could have been on that list too. Success comes from a brilliant collective effort, and I’m truly fortunate to be part of this squad with such incredible support.
Are you staying at Lens next season?
Yes, it’s confirmed. This season’s goal was European qualification, which we’ve achieved. I’m thrilled with my time here and the season we’ve shared. Playing Champions League football at our own stadium? That’s a dream come true.
Will the matches against PSG and Lyon help you regain top form?
Absolutely. Preparing for a final couldn’t ask for better opponents. These are top-tier teams — real tests of quality and ambition.
