Fabian Ruiz and Luis Enrique turn Qatar disappointment into PSG success

Fabian Ruiz’s relationship with Luis Enrique has undergone a striking transformation, four years after the manager left the midfielder out of Spain’s squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The decision caused widespread questions about the pair’s relationship at the time. But Ruiz has since become a key part of Enrique’s project at Paris Saint-Germain, helping the club win the UEFA Champions League in each of the past two seasons, alongside a number of other trophies.

Despite the speculation surrounding his omission from Spain’s squad, Ruiz insists there was never a personal dispute between the two men.

“When he left me out of the World Cup, and then later arrived to manage Paris Saint-Germain, everyone was asking me whether there was a disagreement or a problem between us,” Ruiz said, according to Foot Mercato.

“My answer was always: no, our relationship is excellent. A manager always has to make difficult decisions and, with so many outstanding Spanish players available, it was normal that some would be left out. On that occasion, the decision was made against me.”

Ruiz nevertheless welcomed Enrique’s appointment at Paris Saint-Germain with considerable enthusiasm. The midfielder already understood his former manager’s abilities and believed his arrival could improve the side and bring out the best in its players.

That early confidence has since developed into one of the most successful partnerships of Ruiz’s career, with the pair sharing multiple honours in Paris.

“I was very pleased when he arrived at Paris Saint-Germain because I know he is one of the best managers in the world,” Ruiz said. “I believed his style would benefit the team and bring out the best in every player, and that is exactly what happened.

“We have a wonderful relationship and have won many trophies together.”