Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique offered strong praise for Arsenal ahead of the upcoming UEFA Champions League Final, highlighting the Premier League champions as the best defensive team in the world without possession.
Arsenal officially secured the Premier League title after Manchester City dropped points against Bournemouth, giving Mikel Arteta’s side the crown with ten days remaining before the European final against PSG.
Luis Enrique Highlights Arsenal’s Defensive Strength
Speaking to reporters, Luis Enrique praised Arsenal’s complete structure and defensive organization, pointing to the balance they have shown throughout the season. He emphasized that Arsenal combine strong defensive discipline with attacking efficiency, calling that combination one of the biggest reasons behind their success.
The PSG coach also acknowledged how difficult Arsenal are to play against, particularly without the ball, while noting that the team reflects Arteta’s tactical identity and ability to motivate his squad.
Set Pieces Remain Major Concern
Beyond Arsenal’s defensive structure, Luis Enrique also pointed to their effectiveness on set pieces as another dangerous element heading into the final.
“They deserve to win this Premier League. They have had an incredible season. We know very well their ability to play with the ball. Without the ball, they are the best team in the world, without a doubt. If you concede no goals and you score, that’s a wonderful combination. It will be a very difficult final with two teams arriving with different systems,” Luis Enrique said.
Arsenal have consistently created problems from dead-ball situations throughout the season, with defenders such as William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães playing central roles on both ends of the pitch.
PSG are familiar with the challenge after facing Arsenal earlier in the competition, and Luis Enrique admitted the London side’s organization and pressing make it difficult to control possession consistently.
Different Styles Set Up Intriguing Final
The final now presents a clash between two sides with contrasting systems and approaches. PSG arrive after a dominant European campaign, including last season’s emphatic victory over Inter Milan in the final, while Arsenal enter with momentum after capturing the English title.
However, Luis Enrique suggested this matchup will likely be far more competitive given Arsenal’s defensive consistency and tactical discipline.
“We are used to attacking and defending in our own way. It is difficult to take the ball away from them. We experienced that when we played them. They work very well. They represent very well Mikel Arteta’s ability to motivate and play good football,” the former Spain coach explained.
Arsenal Enter Final With Confidence
Winning the Premier League provides Arsenal with an additional emotional boost heading into the biggest match of the season. Under Mikel Arteta, the club has developed into one of Europe’s most balanced teams, combining defensive solidity with control in possession.
Now, with domestic success secured, Arsenal turn their full attention toward the opportunity to complete the season with European glory against one of the continent’s most talented squads.
