Paris: Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) captain Marquinhos voiced strong confidence ahead of Saturday's Champions League final against Inter Milan in Munich. Speaking to reporters on the eve of the match, the 31-year-old Brazilian defender said the club has grown and is better prepared for high-pressure games.
“The club has learned how to handle games like these,” said Marquinhos, who joined PSG in 2013. He described the final as a glorious opportunity to finally secure the title and erase painful memories from past failures, including the 2020 final loss to Bayern Munich and the infamous 2017 collapse against Barcelona.
Marquinhos is one of only two players still at PSG who featured in the 2020 final, with Presnel Kimpembe being the other, though he now plays a limited role.
Under coach Luis Enrique, the team has shown significant progress, especially after a shaky group-stage start. Enrique, who led Barcelona to victory in the Champions League 2015, now aims to win the title with PSG.
Marquinhos praised Enrique’s leadership and tactical preparation, crediting him with shaping a strong, youthful squad ready for the big stage. PSG has had a standout campaign, winning the French league and cup double and knocking out three Premier League teams—Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal—to reach the final.
This comes despite the high-profile departure of star forward Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid earlier in the season.
Alongside Marquinhos at the press conference was Ousmane Dembele, who has been transformed from a winger into a lethal forward this season, scoring 33 goals in all competitions. Dembele expressed pride in reaching the final, especially after being sent off in the group phase loss to Bayern.
He said the team turned its season around through hard work and resilience. Reflecting on his journey, Enrique highlighted the importance of managing emotions and maintaining focus.
“We have a chance to make history,” he said, emphasizing that the team must stay composed to deliver a performance worthy of the occasion. PSG now stands just one step away from winning their first-ever Champions League title.
This final could mark a historic turning point for the club, driven by experience, youth, and a renewed sense of belief.
