Mark Bosnich commended Luis Enrique’s remarkable resilience after he guided Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to their second Champions League final, following a 2-1 victory over Arsenal for a 3-1 aggregate score. PSG is set to face Inter Milan in the final in Munich on June 1, and despite their star-studded roster, including past legends like Lionel Messi and Neymar, the club has yet to secure a Champions League title.
In the 2020 final, PSG lost to Bayern Munich, but Enrique, who previously led Barcelona to victory in 2015, has achieved significant success despite personal challenges. Bosnich highlighted Enrique’s fortitude in navigating a personal tragedy—the passing of his nine-year-old daughter Xana to cancer in 2019—while also managing Kylian Mbappe’s potential departure to Real Madrid.
“The ability to keep the team competitive while dealing with such personal grief and the pressures of retaining a top player is extraordinary,” Bosnich remarked on Stan Sport. His sentiments were echoed by Mark Pougatch, who emphasised the joy Enrique’s current success brings, particularly after the challenges he has faced.
Enrique fondly remembers Xana, stating, “Her body is gone but she hasn’t died. She’s still with us,” expressing how her spirit continues to inspire him. In his role at PSG, Enrique opted not to replace Mbappe with another superstar but instead fostered a cohesive, resilient team dynamic.
This approach has allowed him to create a competitive side playing attractive football. He remains focused on the team’s ambition, stating, “Our goal remains to make history and be the first to win this long-awaited trophy.” PSG’s strategy, which prioritises youth and talent, has garnered the backing of club president Nasser al-Khelaifi, who believes in the team’s potential and commitment towards achieving an elusive Champions League title.
With a new mindset and solid preparations, PSG looks poised for a historic win as they embark on this crucial match, spurred on by Enrique’s inspirational leadership and their evolving team identity.