Florian Thauvin previews lens vs psg clash and team France hopes

On Wednesday at 9 PM local time (broadcast live on beIN SPORTS), Paris Saint-Germain (currently 1st) will face Lens (2nd) in a rescheduled Ligue 1 matchday 29 fixture for the 2025-2026 season. Ahead of the highly anticipated clash at Stade Bollaert, Lens winger Florian Thauvin (33) shared his thoughts on facing the capital giants and his ambitions with the French national team.

Thauvin: “We’re united to deliver a thrilling football spectacle.”

How do you assess the stakes of this encounter?

If you’re not motivated to play against PSG, you might as well hang up your boots. It’s the pinnacle of Ligue 1 rivalry—first versus second, passion versus ambition. We’re stepping onto the pitch as one, determined to showcase football at its finest.

Has the rescheduling affected your team’s mindset?

Debates about postponements have come and gone. What’s done is done—we can’t rewrite the calendar. Our focus now is solely on the game. It’s a prestige fixture, and we’re channeling all our energy into delivering a performance worthy of the occasion.

Thauvin: “Half-hearted effort would be a disservice to the fans.”

Are you fully fit for this match?

Absolutely. I’ve had minor adductor issues, so we took extra precautions for high-stakes games. Now, I’m back to full strength, recharged and ready to give everything for the team’s success.

How do you balance preparations for this match and the season’s climax?

The final stretch looms large, but our job is to stay present in every game. These matches are stepping stones—critical preparation. Playing without full commitment would be a trap. We need rhythm, clarity, and intensity from the first whistle.

Could this match influence your chances of making Didier Deschamps’ France squad?

Deschamps likely has his plans set. My focus remains on doing my part flawlessly until the season’s end—just as I’ve done all along.

Thauvin reflects on his Lens journey and future ambitions

Have you received any pre-call-up news from France?

I’m on the preliminary list, but no updates on an expanded squad. It’s nothing new—I’ve been in this position for nearly two years now.

How does it feel to be named in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year?

It’s a tremendous honor. This recognition validates the hard work, but I owe everything to my teammates. Without their brilliance, none of this would be possible. I’m humbled by the opportunity and grateful for their support.

Are you committed to Lens for the foreseeable future?

Yes, it’s settled. The season’s goal—European qualification—has been achieved. I couldn’t be happier at Lens. Playing in the Champions League at our home stadium? That’s the dream.

How crucial are these PSG and Lyon fixtures for your rhythm?

They’re the perfect dress rehearsal for the finale. Facing top-tier opponents like these is invaluable—almost like mini-finals in themselves.