Paris St-Germain’s chase for Champions League success has taken a significant step forward after a 2-1 win against Arsenal in the second leg of the semi-final, securing a 3-1 aggregate result. The French champions are now set for a showdown with Inter Milan in Munich on 31 May.
The Parisian side came close to European glory in the 2019-20 campaign, losing to Bayern Munich in the final. Now, under the guidance of Luis Enrique, they appear to have discovered a blend of discipline, unity, and talent that could see them lift the elusive trophy.
Pundit Matthew Upson praised their progress, describing the club as being in a unique phase. He emphasized the intensity, effort, and mutual support among the players, calling this iteration of PSG the most complete he’s observed this season. According to him, Enrique has instilled a spirit that mirrors his own managerial identity – organized, intense, and relentless.
Full-backs shine and a new core emerges
Despite suffering five defeats along the road to the final, PSG have demonstrated resilience and determination when it counted most. Their success has been strongly tied to the performances of Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, whose roles on the flanks have been crucial. Hakimi, named man of the match in both legs of the semi-final and a goalscorer in the return leg, exemplified the energy and effort seen across the team.
Nedum Onuoha, speaking after the match, credited the defensive duo for their bravery and consistency against top-level opposition. He remarked that their displays rank among the best for fullbacks in this year’s European competition.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma also earned praise, with Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta noting that the Italian’s key interventions helped PSG progress. Onuoha echoed this view, highlighting the significance of Donnarumma’s saves at pivotal points across both legs.
Since the departures of star forwards Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappe, many doubted PSG’s potential on the continental stage. However, Luis Enrique has reshaped the side around youth and determination rather than individual stardom. Owen Hargreaves noted that the inclusion of young French talent has strengthened the bond between the squad and its supporters.
With Dembele sidelined due to a hamstring issue, Bradley Barcola filled in admirably in the attack alongside Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. Dembele, who has been involved in a club-record 12 goals this campaign, remains a central figure. Still, the team’s fluidity and pressing have remained effective even in his absence.
French football commentator Julien Laurens expressed admiration for the team’s intensity and dominance, particularly since the start of the year. Pundit Martin Keown went further, calling PSG the most complete side in the tournament and tipping them as clear favorites in the final.
