Paris Saint-Germain's conquest of the Champions League has been a historic milestone for the Parisian club and a moment of vindication for their coach, Luis Enrique. The Asturian coach, with a past at both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, has led PSG to their first Champions League and the treble.
"Our dear Luis Enrique", in Real Madrid's congratulations
Real Madrid surprised by sending a congratulatory message to Luis Enrique, calling him "dear" and also remembering his daughter Xana, who passed away in 2019. The white club stated: "Congratulations to PSG and their fans for their well-deserved 2024-2025 Champions League. Our most special congratulations to our dear Luis Enrique, with an emotional and affectionate remembrance for his daughter Xana."
"Thank you very much, but I'm from Barça"
Luis Enrique, grateful for the gesture, replied courteously but reaffirmed his bond with FC Barcelona. He recalled his status as a culer: "I couldn't expect it, but it reached me, I thank them from the bottom of my heart. But I'm from Barça."
This statement highlights the coach's loyalty to the Catalan club, where he experienced significant moments both as a player and as a coach.
PSG's success under Luis Enrique has been attributed to a collective and disciplined approach, far from dependence on individual stars. The coach has emphasized the importance of having "stars at the service of the team and not the other way around." This philosophy has been key in the transformation of the Parisian team.
Without Mbappé everything has been easier
This approach has been exemplified by players like Ousmane Dembélé, who has taken on a prominent role in the team. He has shown his commitment both in attack and defense. Luis Enrique has praised his performance, considering him deserving of the Ballon d'Or for his leadership and dedication in the final.
Luis Enrique's response and his success with PSG reflect his commitment to a concept of soccer based on the collective. His identification with FC Barcelona's values.
In his second year in Paris, Luis Enrique needed to get rid of Mbappé to achieve his true goal: the Champions League. Without the Madridist, everything has been easier.