Paris Saint-Germain`s journey this season hasn`t always been straightforward, but they`ve successfully reached the Champions League final. After defeating Arsenal with a 3-1 aggregate score (2-1 in the second leg), PSG is set to face Inter in the final on May 31.
Earlier in the competition, during the League Phase, this same PSG side struggled, narrowly qualifying for the knockout playoffs only by winning their final three group matches. However, their attack subsequently found its rhythm, significantly bolstered by the crucial signing of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia during the January transfer window, which helped elevate the team`s performance.
This mid-season improvement allowed PSG to stabilize and emerge as the last team standing with a shot at a treble, including a major European trophy.
The Parisian club has had a remarkable run this season. What have been the primary reasons behind their success?
Belief in Manager Luis Enrique
A critical factor for PSG has been the presence of a highly experienced and successful manager in Luis Enrique. He boasts a proven track record, having won a treble with Barcelona and achieving strong results with the Spanish national team from 2018 to 2022. PSG swiftly appointed Enrique to lead the team, and his impact has been substantial.
Enrique implements an attacking, aesthetically pleasing style of play, reminiscent of his Barcelona era, yet this current PSG side demonstrates even greater fluidity at times. The midfield trio, often featuring Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz, provides versatility, allowing full-backs like Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi to aggressively push forward.
Furthermore, Enrique possesses extensive experience in preparing for high-stakes matches, meaning he remains unfazed by challenging situations. This composure is reflected in his team; even when falling behind, PSG players maintain their tactical principles and can recover, often aided by strategic roster adjustments.
Adapting After Kylian Mbappe`s Departure
Transitioning away from a superstar player is inherently difficult, and while PSG`s season culminated in success, it wasn`t without its initial challenges. Kylian Mbappe`s move to Real Madrid in the summer left what many perceived as a significant gap in the attack. Substantial funds were invested to bring in new players like Willian Pacho, Desire Doue, Joao Neves, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Notably, this list didn`t include a traditional central striker.
Initially, the attack evolved into a more collective effort. However, Ousmane Dembele eventually transitioned into a central role as the nominal number nine, and the results have been outstanding. Alongside Doue, Kvaratskhelia, and Bradley Barcola, Dembele has been remarkably prolific in 2025, scoring 25 goals in 26 appearances – a tally unmatched by any other player in the squad during that period. What began as a strategy to replace Mbappe collectively seems to have ultimately centered on Dembele stepping up.
Dembele, a player always possessing immense talent but sometimes hampered by injuries and inconsistency, is now, like many teammates, hitting peak form under Enrique`s guidance.
The Energy of Youth
Reflecting on the recent transfers, it`s noteworthy that none of the key attacking signings were older than 23 upon arrival, with Kvaratskhelia turning 24 only since joining in January. While they possess experience at elite football levels, they also bring youthful energy and a strong willingness to absorb Enrique`s instructions. Managing established stars can be complex due to differing individual priorities, sometimes leading to the individual overshadowing the team – a dynamic previously observed when Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe formed a somewhat disjointed attacking unit for PSG.
Under Enrique, the current team lacks such issues. In the 90th minute, it`s common to see Kvaratskhelia tracking back diligently to contribute defensively. This dedication isn`t accidental; PSG has developed a clear identity under Enrique, and recruitment has focused on players who fit this model. While Enrique still needs to guide this young squad to lift the trophy, they have already made history as the youngest team ever to reach a Champions League final.
