Enrique’s concern is not described as a lack of motivation, but a shortage of preparation time. That matters in a final, where PSG must balance the value of a settled starting XI against the risk of asking recently returned players to go too far too soon.
With several players only just back, the coach has less opportunity to build combinations on the training pitch. Selection uncertainty is therefore a practical issue: choosing the most experienced side may not mean choosing the players best prepared to handle a demanding match.
PSG arrive as holders after winning the trophy last season, but that success does not remove the uncertainty around this opener. Aston Villa, described in the report as Europa League winners, offer a serious opponent while PSG are still working toward full readiness.
The limited build-up makes caution more reasonable than assuming the champions will immediately look at their strongest. Enrique’s stated aim is for the team to improve as the season develops, rather than peak in its opening week. That gives this final an added role: it is both a chance to claim silverware and an early test of how PSG manage a squad returning from international commitments.
The next question is whether Enrique trusts the recently returned players from the start or keeps some in reserve. The result will matter, but so will how quickly PSG can turn a shortened preparation into a coherent performance.