Paris Saint-Germain’s long-standing quest for European glory may finally be nearing its ultimate destination.
After defeating Arsenal 2-1 in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final — 3-1 on aggregate — the French giants are heading to Munich, where they’ll face Inter Milan in the final on May 31. For a club with 13 Ligue 1 titles but no European crown, this moment feels different. Special.
The elusive Champions League trophy slipped from PSG’s grasp in the 2019-20 final against Bayern Munich. But under Luis Enrique, the club has forged a new identity — one built on unity, energy, and tactical discipline, rather than just star power.
“Out of all the Champions League teams I’ve seen this season, PSG are in a special moment,” said former England defender Matthew Upson on BBC Radio 5 Live. “There’s a real feeling this could be their year. They’re working incredibly hard for each other, and there’s an energy and intensity that’s hard to match.”
A Balanced and Unified Squad
Luis Enrique’s influence is evident. This PSG side reflects his ethos — high work rate, structure, and togetherness.
“They’re fighting for each other,” Upson added. “All the hallmarks of a team destined for success are there.”
That cohesion has made PSG one of the most complete sides in this season’s competition, despite losing five matches en route to the final. The key has been winning when it matters most.
“They’ve gone back to young, French talent — players the fans can connect with,” said Owen Hargreaves on TNT Sports. “This is a proper team that deserves to be in the final.”
Full-Backs Driving the Dream
A significant part of PSG’s success lies with their full-backs. Achraf Hakimi, named Man of the Match in both semi-final legs, scored a stunning goal against Arsenal. Alongside Nuno Mendes, the pair provided constant attacking width and defensive resilience.
“They’ve faced some of Europe’s best wingers and stood tall,” said former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha. “Their performances have been among the best by any full-back duo in this season’s Champions League.”
Donnarumma’s Defining Saves
Between the posts, Gianluigi Donnarumma has been a standout figure. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta singled him out as the key difference-maker across the two legs.
“He was the best player on the pitch,” said Arteta. “His saves made the difference.”
Onuoha echoed that sentiment: “In the biggest moments, he stepped up. His saves were crucial.”
A New Era After the Exit of Superstars
Following the departures of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé, many predicted PSG would struggle. Instead, Enrique has crafted a high-energy, youth-driven team. No longer relying on superstar names, this PSG is defined by effort and chemistry.
“They’ve transformed,” said Martin Keown on TNT Sports. “I’ve never seen PSG’s forwards work so hard. Without the big-name egos, they’ve become a complete side.”
One of the stars of this rejuvenated squad has been Ousmane Dembélé, who’s been involved in a record 12 Champions League goals this season — the most ever by a PSG player. Though sidelined with a hamstring injury in the semi-final, his absence was effectively covered by the impressive Bradley Barcola.
Joining Dembélé in PSG’s electrifying front three are youngsters Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, adding creativity and explosiveness to the attack.
“This PSG team is full of youth, energy, and fluidity,” said French football expert Julien Laurens. “Even without Dembélé, their front line is terrifying for any defense. Since the turn of the year, they’ve been the best team in Europe.”
