Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has said his team has greater motivation than Arsenal ahead of the UEFA Champions League final, insisting that the desire to successfully defend a European title is stronger than the ambition of winning it for the first time.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference before Saturday’s showdown in Budapest, Enrique explained that PSG are fully focused on making history by retaining the Champions League trophy they won last season.
A victory over Arsenal would make the French champions only the second club in the modern Champions League era to successfully defend the title.
The former FC Barcelona coach was asked about Arsenal’s motivation as the Premier League side seeks to win the Champions League for the first time in its history.
In response, Enrique acknowledged that the opportunity to claim a maiden European crown is a powerful source of inspiration.
However, he argued that the challenge of winning back-to-back Champions League titles is even greater.
According to Enrique, maintaining success at the highest level of European football requires exceptional determination, consistency and mental strength. He believes PSG’s players understand the significance of achieving such a feat and are highly motivated to defend their crown.
The Spanish tactician confidently stated that his side has a slight edge in terms of motivation because of the historic achievement that is at stake.
Both teams have impressed throughout this season’s competition. PSG secured their place in the final after overcoming Bayern Munich in the semi-finals, while Arsenal advanced by defeating Atletico Madrid over two legs.
With European football’s biggest prize on the line, fans are expecting an intense and closely contested encounter in Budapest.
While Arsenal are chasing a first Champions League triumph, PSG will be aiming to cement their status among Europe’s elite by retaining the prestigious trophy. Both clubs will be determined to end the night as champions of Europe.
