Paris Saint-Germain secured their second consecutive Champions League title on Saturday afternoon, defeating Arsenal in a dramatic final held at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary. The victory, sealed in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, was quickly followed by pointed comments from PSG midfielder Vitinha and manager Luis Enrique regarding Arsenal’s defensive approach and perceived time-wasting tactics.
The final saw Kai Havertz give Arsenal an early lead, which was later cancelled out by Ousmane Dembele’s second-half penalty. Vitinha, who played the full game and was named Player of the Match for his commanding performance, did not shy away from expressing his frustration with Arsenal’s strategy during the contest.
“It’s difficult because you see the clock ticking away, it’s a final, you want to win and they waste a lot of time on everything: throw-ins, goal kicks, everything,” Vitinha told TNT Sports after the match. “And it’s very difficult because if you fall into that trap… you lose your cool.”
Enrique criticises Arsenal’s defensive approach
PSG manager Luis Enrique echoed a similar sentiment, particularly concerning Arsenal’s approach after taking the lead. His comments highlighted the challenge his side faced in breaking down a resilient Arsenal defence.
Read also: Chelsea's social media post sparks controversy after Arsenal's Champions League final defeat
”The match started the best way for them, they scored in a lucky action, and after that it was a pleasure for them as they know how to defend, so it was very tough,” Enrique stated, also speaking to TNT Sports. The remarks suggest a belief that Arsenal were content to sit back and defend their advantage, making for a challenging encounter for PSG.
The sentiment was further amplified by Joao Neves, who, according to reports, criticised Arsenal’s style of play by stating that ‘PSG were the only team that wanted to play.’ Despite the perceived tactics, Vitinha acknowledged the quality of their opponents. “Arsenal is a very good team, very competitive and tough, but based on what we did today and throughout the Champions League, we deserve to win,” he added.
PSG’s triumph marks a significant achievement, securing back-to-back Champions League titles and solidifying their status among Europe’s elite. The post-match comments, however, ensure that the debate over tactical approaches in high-stakes finals will continue to be a talking point.
Sources: TNT
Read also: Cruel ending for Arsenal as Gabriel miss hands PSG Champions League glory
Read also: Arne Slot sacked as Liverpool's miserable title defence comes to an end
