"We are facing an opportunity that will go down in history."
Luis Enrique, the manager of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), made a resolute statement ahead of the Champions League final.
PSG will face Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final for the 2024-2025 season, which will take place in Munich, Germany, on June 1 (Korean time). Having already secured the Ligue 1 title, PSG will challenge for European glory after facing Stade de Reims in the Coupe de France final on the 25th. It is a fateful day with a chance to claim three trophies.
On the 22nd, during a press conference released on PSG's official website, Luis Enrique stated, "The most important thing while preparing for the final is to enjoy it. We are on the brink of achieving the goals we dreamed of at the beginning of the season. I told the players to embrace this opportunity with ambition."
He added, "We have endured well despite ups and downs throughout the season. Both the Coupe de France final and the Champions League final are special matches. Not everyone gets the chance to play on such stages. I want to leave my name in PSG's history by delivering our best performance."
He also expressed caution regarding their Champions League final opponent, Inter Milan. "Inter is a team with strong defense and various tactical options. They are a team that has defeated Bayern Munich and Barcelona, so we must respect them. Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez are dangerous, and goalkeeper Yann Sommer is experienced," he noted, maintaining his caution.
PSG is formidable as well. Enrique expressed pride, saying, "We have invested a lot to get here. We are a team with excellent organization in both defense and attack. This season, 18 players have scored in the league, and our total goals are higher than last year. All our attackers are committed to defense, and I am very satisfied with that aspect."
He also explained, "The biggest turning point of the season was in January. Since then, our decisiveness and confidence have improved, and the players' movement and positioning have also gotten better. All of this has been made possible by the dedication of the players and the support of our fans."
PSG has yet to experience winning the Champions League. This final is the club's first challenge for the Champions League trophy. Midfielder Lee Kang-in is also part of the squad. He has contributed since mid-season as a wing player, aiding in quick attacks and defensive efforts.
The problem is that Lee Kang-in's playing time has significantly decreased as the season progressed. With all the starting members showcasing outstanding skills and achieving consecutive wins, PSG and Enrique feel little need to change the lineup by bringing Lee Kang-in in.
Enrique stated, "Ultimately, the key is to enjoy it. This match will be a stage that proves what path our players have walked. I want to remember this moment with the fans for a long time."
Earlier on the 22nd, Son Heung-min led Tottenham Hotspur to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United, successfully winning the UEFA Europa League and achieving his first career title. It remains to be seen whether Lee Kang-in can raise another trophy, marking the sixth trophy, and whether PSG can complete the European treble.
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