Paris Saint-Germain manager, Luis Enrique has said he is delighted to face Marco Asensio and he has no concerns about him coming back to haunt his side, as the Spanish international prepares to face his parent club with Aston Villa in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Enrique speaking at the Press Conference ahead of Wednesday’s first leg of UEFA Champions League at the Parc des Princes, he welcomed the opportunity for Asensio to play, despite his loan status.

“I’m happy he can play,” the PSG boss told reporters. “He wasn’t getting the minutes he wanted here, and when the chance came to go to Birmingham, it made sense. It’s good that he’s now playing regularly.”

Asensio, 29, made 16 appearances for PSG earlier this season but slipped down the pecking order and was loaned to Aston Villa in January, just before the winter transfer window closed. Since joining the Premier League side, he has rediscovered his form, netting eight goals in 11 matches, including three across both legs of Villa’s Champions League last-16 victory over Club Brugge.

Luis Enrique, who coached Asensio during his time in charge of Spain at the 2022 World Cup, spoke highly of the former Real Madrid star.

“I’ve shared a lot with him on the national team,” he said. “He came to the World Cup with me and played a key role. He was important for us last season and earlier this season as well. He’s a top-level player.”

Fresh off securing the Ligue 1 title over the weekend, PSG now turn their focus to continuing their Champions League campaign after edging out Liverpool on penalties in the previous round. However, they’ll be without captain Marquinhos for the first leg due to suspension.

Wednesday’s match also marks a reunion between Luis Enrique and fellow Spaniard Unai Emery, now managing Aston Villa.

“It’ll be great to see him again,” Enrique said. “He’s a fantastic coach. His teams always improve under his leadership. He brings tireless energy and has a great track record of success.”

The return leg is set for Tuesday, April 15, at Villa Park.