Paris Saint-Germain has undergone a rapid transformation, emerging as one of Europe`s most exciting football teams. This evolution has propelled them into the UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan, placing them on the verge of securing a trophy that has historically been out of reach.
In his first season since Kylian Mbappe`s departure, manager Luis Enrique has expertly guided a relatively young squad. While their path wasn`t always straightforward, with initial stumbles in a challenging group stage that included matches against powerhouses like Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City, the team found its rhythm.
Their significant 4-2 victory over Manchester City in January served as a crucial turning point, kickstarting an impressive run to the final that featured knockout stage wins against strong opponents such as Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal.
Securing a victory in the Champions League final would not only end PSG`s long quest for Europe`s top club prize but could also potentially complete a treble if they are also successful in the Coupe de France final against Reims on May 24. Furthermore, they would become only the second French club to ever win the Champions League, following Marseille`s triumph in 1993.
As the highly anticipated final approaches, let`s delve into the factors that suggest Paris Saint-Germain is well-positioned to win the coveted trophy.
Paris Saint-Germain`s Strengths
- Aggressive, attack-focused pressing strategy
- Exceptional form demonstrated by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
- Crucial shot-stopping performances from Gianluigi Donnarumma
Paris Saint-Germain`s Weaknesses
- Tendency towards wasteful finishing
- Significant reliance on Donnarumma`s saves
- Relative inexperience when facing a seasoned opponent like Inter Milan
Reasons Why Paris Saint-Germain is Poised for Victory
1. Enrique`s Effective Pressing System
While team success stems from multiple factors, PSG`s revamped pressing scheme stands out as a primary driver behind their impressive journey to the Champions League final. Luis Enrique`s new tactical approach has made PSG exceptionally difficult to overcome in European competition. This system relies on the midfield setting the tempo and a dynamic group of attackers, including wingbacks, overwhelming opposing defenses. Different types of teams have struggled against PSG when their press is executed effectively, including the defensively solid Arsenal side in the semifinal tie, which PSG ultimately won 3-1 on aggregate. Facing another defense-oriented team in Inter in the final provides PSG with a final opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of their high press.
2. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia`s Impactful Performances
The team`s press has elevated PSG in ways their previous star-centric approach did not, but individual brilliance remains vital. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has been a standout player within this system. Quietly recognized as one of Europe`s top talents for several seasons, he found an ideal fit when joining Enrique`s squad in January. His contributions have been essential to the new pressing style, evidenced by his four goals and five assists, a remarkable output for a midseason signing. With Kvaratskhelia maintaining his strong form, expect him to be a central figure for PSG on the pitch at Munich`s Allianz Arena.
3. Gianluigi Donnarumma`s Outstanding Form
PSG`s path to the final has included challenging moments, such as their close 5-4 aggregate victory over Aston Villa in the quarterfinals. The team has frequently relied on the excellent form of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma during the knockout stages. Although his performances haven`t always received consistent acclaim, the Italy international has been crucial for the French champions, particularly in high-pressure knockout matches. He has made 35 saves in the Champions League this season, including 14 saves in the last four matches alone. Inter demonstrated their clinical finishing ability in the semifinals, but getting the ball past an in-form Donnarumma will be a significant challenge.
Benedict Kingsley