Paris Saint-Germain has undergone a swift and exciting transformation, securing their place in the UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan. This represents a significant opportunity to finally claim the prestigious trophy that has historically eluded the club.
Under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique, the relatively young squad has navigated their first season post-Kylian Mbappe successfully, a feat not initially guaranteed. The French champions faced challenges during the group stage, contending with a demanding draw that included top teams like Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. However, a crucial 4-2 victory over City in January marked the beginning of a powerful run towards the final, featuring knockout stage wins against formidable opponents such as Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal.
Winning the Champions League final would not only end PSG`s long pursuit of European football`s top club prize but could also cap off a potential treble season, provided they also secure victory in the Coupe de France final on May 24 against Reims. Achieving this would make them only the second French club ever to win the Champions League, following Marseille`s triumph in 1993.
As the final match approaches, let`s delve into the factors that position PSG favorably to win the competition.
Preferred Paris Saint-Germain Lineup
- Ideal XI: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes, Joao Neves, Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
Paris Saint-Germain`s Strengths
- Revamped, aggressive attacking press
- Exceptional form of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
- Crucial saves and performances from Gianluigi Donnarumma
Paris Saint-Germain`s Weaknesses
- Occasional inefficiency in finishing chances
- Significant dependence on Donnarumma`s goalkeeping
- Relative inexperience compared to a seasoned Inter side
Why Paris Saint-Germain Will Win the Champions League
1. Enrique`s Unstoppable Pressing Scheme
While team success is multifaceted, PSG`s refined pressing game under Enrique has been a defining feature of their impressive run to the final. This new tactical approach has made them incredibly difficult to overcome in Europe. The strategy involves the midfield initiating the press and various attackers, including wingbacks, overloading opponent defenses. This high-intensity system has dismantled different types of teams, including defensively solid ones like Arsenal in the semifinal tie, which PSG won 3-1 on aggregate. Facing another defense-oriented team in Inter, PSG`s press will be a key weapon to disrupt their opponent`s structure.
2. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia`s Impactful Form
PSG`s transition to a system focused on collective pressing over individual stars hasn`t prevented individual brilliance from shining through. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia stands out as a top performer, having consistently shown quality over several seasons. His arrival in January proved to be a perfect fit for Enrique`s system. Kvaratskhelia has been integral to the new pressing dynamics and has recorded four goals and five assists, making an immediate and significant impact as a midseason acquisition. With his strong form continuing, expect him to be a central figure for PSG in the final at Munich`s Allianz Arena.
3. Gianluigi Donnarumma`s Career-Best Goalkeeping
PSG`s journey to the final hasn`t been without tense moments, such as the narrow 5-4 aggregate victory over Aston Villa in the quarterfinals. They have often relied on key interventions, particularly from their in-form goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma. While not always universally praised, the Italian international has been vital for the French champions, especially during the knockout stages. He has made 35 saves in the Champions League campaign so far, with 14 coming in the last four matches alone. Inter demonstrated their clinical finishing in the semifinals, but penetrating Donnarumma`s goal will be a significant challenge if he maintains his current exceptional form.
