News Focus
- Luis Enrique claims PSG and Arsenal share similar football philosophies despite different tactical approaches
- The Spanish coach praises Arsenal’s recent Premier League title success under Mikel Arteta’s seven-year project
- Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi both declared fit for the final after recent injury battles
- Nuno Mendes also available for selection following his hamstring recovery
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has rejected claims that his team and Arsenal represent completely different footballing visions ahead of their Champions League final meeting.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Spanish manager argued that both clubs actually share comparable ideas about the game. He admitted they have simply reached this stage through different tactical routes.
Many observers have labelled Arsenal as the more defensive side compared to PSG’s attacking approach. However, Luis Enrique disagrees with this simple comparison. He pointed out that Arsenal score plenty of goals, while his own team also defends very well.
The former Barcelona boss praised Arsenal’s recent domestic success. He stated that Mikel Arteta’s side fully deserved their Premier League title, noting they were the most consistent team throughout the season. He highlighted Arteta’s seven-year project at the club, saying the results of his work are now clearly visible.
Luis Enrique revealed that his staff have studied their opponents carefully. The two teams have met several times in recent seasons, giving PSG valuable insight into Arsenal’s playing style. He believes his team can still improve both in attack and defence ahead of the big match.
There was positive news for PSG fans regarding injuries. Both Ousmane Dembélé and Achraf Hakimi have recovered in time and will be available for selection. The French winger and Moroccan defender had both faced races against time to prove their fitness.
Nuno Mendes has also recovered from the hamstring problem that troubled him last month. The Portuguese left-back will be ready to feature in the final.