Luis Enrique on PSG’s Champions League Final: “We’re Ready to Make History”
As Paris Saint-Germain prepare for the highly anticipated Champions League Final against Inter Milan, head coach Luis Enrique addressed the media with confidence, clarity, and a sense of pride in his squad. The Spanish manager touched on everything from his relationship with the club to Ousmane Dembélé’s rise and the pressure of the big stage.
“My Motivation Is to Make History in Paris”
Looking ahead to Saturday’s final in Munich, Enrique emphasized his desire to bring PSG their first-ever Champions League title.
“My biggest motivation is to make history in Paris,” he said. “It would be incredible to bring success to the city and the country. Being first is always special. I feel lucky, and tomorrow we’ll give everything—and more to bring joy to the fans.”
On Dembélé: “A Leader and Example”
When asked about Ousmane Dembélé, Enrique was full of praise for the French winger, calling him one of PSG’s standout players this season.
“He scores, passes, defends he’s a leader,” Enrique said. “He sets an example for others. I’m happy to give him my trust, and it’s amazing to hear him speak with such maturity.”
Despite controversy earlier in the season when Dembélé was benched against Arsenal, Enrique explained his rationale:
“I have one of the best squads in Europe. Every decision is for the good of the team. That’s the coach’s job to make choices that serve the collective. Sometimes they create noise, but I’m at peace with my decisions.”
Facing Inter Milan: “A Complete Team with Dangerous Individuals”
Turning his attention to the opposition, Enrique acknowledged the unique challenge posed by Inter Milan.
“Inter are a compact, hard-working team. When they drop deep, the space disappears. That’s always tricky. But we know how to handle those situations. What’s more, they have individuals who can change a game in one moment.”
“We’ll need to adapt to the rhythm of the final. I’m optimistic. We’ve faced tough opponents all season and we’ve grown from that.”
Experience and Evolution: “10 Years Wiser”
This final holds personal significance for Enrique, who last appeared in a Champions League final a decade ago.
“I’m facing another Italian team, 10 years later,” he reflected. “But I’ve had 10 more years of experience. That changes how you approach things. I’m at peace and excited. I told the players: we have a chance to do something no one at PSG has done before.”
On His Relationship With PSG
Enrique also addressed perceptions of his connection with the club amid external speculation:
“The symbiosis has always been there—but maybe some people don’t want to see it. My attitude doesn’t change whether I win or lose. I’ve always had a great relationship with the players. I work every day to improve them individually and as a team.”
Final Thoughts
Calm yet confident, Luis Enrique enters the 2025 Champions League Final with one goal in mind: to lead PSG to European glory. With a fully fit squad, standout performers like Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia, and a manager laser-focused on history, the Parisian giants look poised for a defining moment on the continental stage.
