Florian Thauvin on Lens vs PSG clash and France team hopes

On Wednesday at 21:00, the Paris Saint-Germain (top of the table) face Lens (second place) in a rescheduled Ligue 1 matchday 29 clash at the Stade Bollaert. In a press conference, Lens forward Florian Thauvin (33) shared his thoughts on the high-stakes encounter, the Parisian rivals, and his ambitions for the French national team.

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

Has the significance of this match changed compared to earlier in the season?

If you’re not motivated to face PSG, you might as well quit football altogether (smiles). This is a must-win game, even if the final league standings feel almost decided already. It’s the top team against the runner-up—a clash of passion where we’ll all come together to play exciting football.

Did the postponement affect your mindset?

The debate has been endless, but we can’t change the past. Let’s focus on tomorrow’s game—it’s a prestige fixture, and we’ll stay sharp without making unnecessary noise.

Thauvin: “Giving anything less than 100% would be a mistake.”

Are you fully fit? Are you at 100%?

Absolutely. I had an adductor issue earlier, so we took precautions for key matches. I’ve had time to recover, train properly, and return in peak condition to finish the season on a high.

Is it hard to focus beyond the season finale? Does Ligue 1 serve as preparation?

The finale is always on our minds, but our job is to stay locked in for every match. We know our position, yet each game is a stepping stone. Half-hearted effort would be a trap—we must bring intensity and clarity.

Do you see yourself in Didier Deschamps’ France squad? Could this match influence his decision?

Deschamps likely has his plans set. All I can do is perform consistently until the end of the season, just as I have done so far.

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

Have you received a pre-call-up? Any updates on an expanded list?

I’m in the pre-call-up pool, but I have no further details about an extended squad. It’s nothing new—this has been the case for nearly two years now.

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

It’s a huge honor to be included in the XI. It reflects a lot of hard work and pays off—it’s deeply rewarding. I’m thrilled, especially since it reinforces my decision to join Lens. This recognition is individual, but I owe it to my teammates. Many of them deserved this recognition too. A collective brilliance allows personal achievements to shine, and I’m fully aware of how lucky I am to be part of this squad and the invaluable support of my colleagues.

Are you committed to staying at Lens next season?

Yes, it’s confirmed. The medium-term project included securing European qualification this season, and I’m loving my time here. Sharing this journey with everyone has been incredible. What could be better than playing Champions League football in our own stadium? I couldn’t be happier.

Will the upcoming matches against PSG and Lyon help you regain match sharpness?

Absolutely. Preparing for a finale, you couldn’t ask for tougher opponents. They’re among the league leaders—essentially acting as finals in themselves.