PSG coach Luis Enrique has praised Arsenal ahead of the Champions League final, calling Mikel Arteta’s side the best team in the world out of possession.
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has praised Arsenal ahead of this month’s Champions League final, describing Mikel Arteta’s side as the best team in the world when playing without the ball.
The Spanish coach spoke highly of the newly crowned Premier League champions after Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for the English title earlier this week. Luis Enrique said their domestic success made it no surprise to see them reach the Champions League final as well.
PSG previously faced Arsenal twice last season, and Enrique admitted his side experienced first-hand just how difficult Arteta’s team can be to play against. He particularly highlighted Arsenal’s intensity, organization, and pressing structure.
According to the PSG boss, Arsenal’s defensive work without possession sets them apart from every other team in world football. He also warned that the Gunners are equally dangerous going forward due to the quality they possess in attack.
Luis Enrique expects a difficult final in Budapest on May 30 and believes the match will showcase two sides with contrasting tactical approaches. Despite the challenge ahead, he predicted an exciting contest between two elite teams.
The former Barcelona coach also stressed the importance of defensive commitment from every player, including attackers. He used Ousmane Dembélé as an example of a forward whose work rate without the ball has become essential for PSG.
Enrique explained that modern football often focuses heavily on goals and assists while overlooking the defensive contribution made by attacking players. He praised Dembélé for his relentless pressing and willingness to defend throughout matches regardless of the scoreline or stage of the game.
As the countdown to the Champions League final continues, Enrique’s comments underline the respect Arsenal have earned across Europe under Arteta. With both clubs chasing European glory, the showdown in Budapest is already being viewed as one of the most highly anticipated finals in recent years.
