News Focus
- Thierry Henry and Presnel Kimpembe are expected to present the Champions League trophy before the final whistle
- UEFA tradition requires former players from each finalist club to carry the silverware onto the pitch
- Kimpembe has confirmed his participation after departing PSG for Qatar SC last summer
- Henry’s television duties with CBS Sports may prevent the Arsenal icon from accepting the honour
- The ceremony will take place immediately before the kick-off between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal
European football’s most coveted prize will receive a grand entrance before this weekend’s Champions League final. Sources indicate that Arsenal icon Thierry Henry and former Paris Saint-Germain star Presnel Kimpembe will carry the trophy onto the pitch ahead of the clash between the Gunners and Les Parisiens.
UEFA normally invites legendary figures from each competing club to perform this ceremonial duty. Last year, Javier Pastore represented the French side while Javier Zanetti appeared for Inter Milan before the match in Munich.
Kimpembe, who joined Qatar SC last summer following PSG’s first European triumph, has already accepted the invitation. The French defender told local media that representing his formative club fills him with pride. He hopes his presence will bring good fortune to the team and their supporters on the night.
Meanwhile, Henry remains the North London club’s preferred choice to handle the responsibility for Arsenal. However, the World Cup winner currently serves as a pundit for CBS Sports. This broadcasting commitment could create a scheduling clash that prevents him from participating in the pre-match presentation.