Florian thauvin on lens psg clash and France dream

When the clock strikes 21:00 this Wednesday, Lens will face Paris Saint-Germain in a high-stakes Ligue 1 showdown at Stade Bollaert. The fixture, originally scheduled for matchday 29, pits the second-placed Racing Club de Lens against the league leaders Paris Saint-Germain. In a pre-match press briefing, Lens forward Florian Thauvin (33) shared his thoughts on the eagerly awaited clash, the challenges ahead, and his aspirations with the French national team.

Thauvin: “we’re heading in as one to deliver a football spectacle”

With pride and passion at the forefront, how do you view the significance of this match?

If you’re not excited to face Paris Saint-Germain, you shouldn’t be playing football in the first place. That’s how simple it is. This isn’t just another game—it’s a battle between the league’s top two sides. We’re going out there united, ready to showcase our love for the game and leave everything on the pitch.

Has the postponement affected your mindset?

The postponement sparked plenty of debate, but it’s water under the bridge now. We can’t change the past, so we’re focusing entirely on the task at hand. This remains a prestige fixture, and we’ll stay grounded, professional, and committed to the challenge ahead.

Thauvin: “giving anything less than full commitment would be a trap”

Are you fully fit for this crucial encounter? Any lingering concerns?

I’m in peak condition. Earlier this season, I had some adductor tightness, so we took precautions ahead of key matches. Now, I’ve had the time to recover, train effectively, and return stronger—ready to finish the season on a high.

With a final still looming, how do you balance focus between the two?

The final is always on our minds—it’s natural. But our job is to stay present for every match. We know where we stand, and each game is a stepping stone. Giving anything less than our all would be a mistake. We need rhythm, clarity, and intensity from the first whistle.

Could this match influence your chances with the French national team?

Didier Deschamps has a clear vision, and he’s already made his decisions. My focus is on performing consistently until the end of the season—just as I have been doing.

Thauvin: “i’m grateful to be part of this incredible squad”

Have you received a pre-call-up for Les Bleus?

I’m included in the pre-call-up, though I don’t have details about an expanded squad. It’s not 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 an immense honour. All the hard work has paid off, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s a personal achievement, but I owe so much to my teammates. They deserved recognition too. Success comes from a brilliant collective effort, and I’m truly grateful to be part of this squad. Their support has been invaluable.

Are you planning to stay at Lens next season?

Absolutely. The club’s medium-term project included securing European football this season, and I’m thrilled to be here. What could be better than playing Champions League football in our own stadium? I’m overjoyed.

Can the upcoming matches against PSG and Lyon help regain top form?

Absolutely. These fixtures are perfect preparation for a final. They’re top-tier opponents, essentially acting as high-pressure finals themselves. We couldn’t ask for a better preparation.