Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has expressed his admiration for Arsenal after his side edged the Premier League champions in a dramatic Champions League final.
The Spaniard insists that the Gunners are moving ever closer to lifting Europe’s biggest prize.
Arsenal made a dream start in the Champions League final when Kai Havertz thundered home a ferocious effort in the sixth minute.
Mikel Arteta’s troops then settled into a low block, frustrating PSG’s efforts to respond. For a while, it worked a treat, but the reigning champions ultimately found a way back in.
Khvicha Kvaratshkelia was fouled by Cristhian Mosquera in the box, and Ballon d’Or holder Ousmane Dembele made no mistake, levelling matters from the penalty spot.
With neither side able to find a winner during normal time or extra time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout. It was PSG who held their nerve, securing a 4-3 victory to retain their crown.
[Arsenal’s wait for their first-ever Champions League title continues](https://footballtoday.com/2026/05/31/how-should-arsenals-season-be-judged-after-champions-league-final-defeat/) as missed penalties from Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Magalhaes proved costly on a night that ended in heartbreak.
Despite celebrating another European triumph, Enrique was quick to praise Arsenal’s progress under manager Arteta.
The PSG boss believes the North London club has developed into one of Europe’s strongest teams and is getting closer to achieving its ultimate goal.
“Arsenal are getting closer and closer,” Enrique said (via [The Standard](https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/luis-enrique-why-arsenal-fc-will-win-champions-league-b1284249.html)). “This team adds a bit more attacking power and desire. This team can have everything. It will hurt tonight.
“They played great. It’s normal. They try to take the match into phases when they are strong. We tried to control the ball and press. We have won the title.
“It is cruel for Arsenal fans, but it is inevitable that this club will win the Champions League. Mikel Arteta will see the positives because that is the kind of guy he is.”