News Focus
- Sir Alex Ferguson sends voice message to PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi following Champions League victory
- Paris Saint-Germain defeat Arsenal on penalties to secure back-to-back European titles
- Ferguson labels Arsenal a ‘boring team that did nothing but defend’
- PSG now hold two Champions League trophies, matching Ferguson’s haul with Manchester United
- Comments align with João Neves’ remarks that only PSG attempted to play attacking football
Sir Alex Ferguson has congratulated Paris Saint-Germain on winning the Champions League. The former Manchester United manager sent a personal message to club president Nasser Al-Khelaïfi. However, he used the opportunity to strongly criticise Arsenal’s approach in the final.
The French champions secured their second consecutive European title in Budapest. They defeated the Gunners 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw. Kai Havertz put Arsenal ahead early in the match. Ousmane Dembélé equalised for the Ligue 1 side before the game went to spot-kicks. Both Eberechi Eze and Gabriel missed their attempts for the London club.
This victory means PSG have now won the same number of Champions League trophies as Ferguson managed at Old Trafford. The Scottish legend claimed two European crowns during his tenure with the Red Devils.
According to French publication L’Equipe, Ferguson sent a voice note to Al-Khelaïfi. He said: “Nasser, this is Alex Ferguson. Well done. It was a tough night for you, but you played against a boring team that did nothing but defend. Enjoy your holidays, you deserve it.”
Mikel Arteta’s side employed a deep defensive block throughout the final. This tactical approach frustrated Luis Enrique’s attack-minded team. Ferguson clearly disliked this conservative style of play.
The 82-year-old’s comments mirror statements made by PSG midfielder João Neves. The Portuguese international claimed that only his team showed willingness to attack during the showpiece event.