This Wednesday at 9 PM, Paris Saint-Germain, currently leading the league, travels to face second-placed Lens at Stade Bollaert. This match, a rescheduled fixture from the 29th round of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season, carries significant weight. During a recent press briefing, Lens forward Florian Thauvin shared his perspective on the challenge ahead, his international aspirations, and his long-term plans.
Thauvin: « We are going to play a great game of football together »
Is the motivation different now compared to a month ago?
If you aren’t motivated to play against Paris Saint-Germain, then it is time to walk away from the sport. Motivation is never an issue for games like this. It is a vital match, even if the final league standings are becoming clearer. It is a battle between the top two teams, fueled by our passion. We are going to step out there together to deliver a high-quality performance.
Has the rescheduling affected the squad’s mindset?
We could debate the timing of the decision for hours, as it certainly caused a stir when it was announced. However, now is not the time to look back; we cannot change the past. Our focus is entirely on tomorrow’s game. It remains a prestigious and important fixture, and we intend to stay concentrated without creating any distractions.
Thauvin: « It would be a mistake not to give our all »
How are you feeling physically? Are you back to full fitness?
Yes, I am at 100%. I had some issues with my adductor, and we decided to take precautions to ensure I was ready for the most critical matches. I’ve had the chance to recover well and work hard, returning in peak condition to finish the season as strongly as possible.
Is it difficult to focus on anything other than the final? Is the league just a warm-up?
The final is definitely on our minds, but our job is to remain professional and focused on every single match. While we are aware of our position, these games serve as vital preparation. It would be a trap to not play at full intensity. We need to maintain our rhythm and tactical clarity heading into the end of the season.
Do you believe you can make the France national team squad? Could this match be a factor?
I believe Didier Deschamps already has a clear vision for his squad. My responsibility is to continue performing correctly until the very end, maintaining the consistency I have shown since the start of the season.
Thauvin: « I realize how lucky I am to be part of this squad »
Have you received a pre-call-up for a larger list?
I am included in the pre-selection, but I don’t have specific details regarding an expanded list. This has been the case for nearly two years now, so it isn’t a new situation for me.
How does it feel to be named in the Ligue 1 team of the season?
It is a source of immense pride to be featured in the Ligue 1 best eleven. It represents a lot of hard work coming to fruition. I am thrilled, and it reinforces my decision to join this club. While it is an individual honor, I owe a lot to my teammates; many of them could have easily been included as well. Individual expression comes through a strong collective, and I am fully aware of how fortunate I am to be part of this group and receive such support from my peers.
Will you still be here next season?
That is already settled. The medium-term project included qualifying for Europe this year. I am very happy at Lens and proud of what we have achieved together. There is nothing better than the prospect of playing in the Champions League at our own stadium. I am very content.
Are the upcoming games against PSG and Lyon ideal for regaining momentum?
To prepare for a final, we couldn’t have asked for better opponents. These are high-level challenges. These matches feel like finals themselves because we are facing the top teams in the league.
