Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) head coach Luis Enrique has attributed Arsenal’s early breakthrough in the Champions League final to a stroke of luck, noting that the goal set the stage for an incredibly challenging encounter that was eventually decided by a penalty shootout.
PSG secured the title after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time, ultimately triumphing 4-3 on penalties at the Puskas Arena in Budapest on Saturday, May 30, 2026. Arsenal had surged ahead in just the sixth minute courtesy of a Kai Havertz strike. PSG fought back in the second half, with Ousmane Dembele converting a crucial penalty to level the score.
“I think the game started in the best possible way for them. They scored from a bit of luck,” Luis Enrique told TNT Sports, as reported by ESPN. “After that, the pressure was on them because they knew how to defend deep. It was a very difficult match.”
Enrique praised Arsenal’s tactical discipline, noting their physical strength and organized defensive structure. “We are accustomed to attacking teams that sit back with many players behind the ball. However, Arsenal is physically very strong and constantly looked to capitalize on every transition. That made the match exceptionally tough,” he added.
Despite the adversity, the Spanish tactician maintained that PSG deserved the equalizer and ultimately earned their place as champions. “I think we deserved to level the match, and in the end, we are thrilled to bring this trophy home,” Enrique reflected.
This historic victory marks PSG as only the second team in the Champions League era to successfully defend their title, joining the ranks of Real Madrid. While the achievement solidifies his status among the coaching elite, earning him his third Champions League trophy, Enrique played down talk of personal legacy. “Legend? I am not interested in that. I have three titles, so I still have room to grow. I would be happy if I could reach four,” he said.
Enrique also extended his respect to the opposition. “Congratulations to Arsenal. They played very well. They tried to drag the game into difficult phases and posed a constant threat. We focused on controlling possession and maintaining pressure, and in the end, it was enough to secure the title.”
PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi was quick to laud his coach, hailing Enrique as the best in the world. He expressed optimism that the Spaniard would remain at the helm long-term, even as contract negotiations continue. “He is the best coach in the world. He is very special, both as a coach and as a person. What he has achieved with this team is extraordinary,” Al-Khelaifi concluded.
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Summary
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique credited Arsenal’s early opening goal to luck during the Champions League final, which ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw. Despite the early setback from a Kai Havertz strike, PSG managed to equalize through an Ousmane Dembele penalty and eventually secured the title with a 4-3 victory in the penalty shootout.
Enrique praised Arsenal for their physical strength and disciplined defensive structure, which made the match an exceptionally difficult challenge. This historic win marks PSG as only the second team to successfully defend their Champions League title, further cementing Enrique’s reputation as a top-tier tactician in European football.