In the wake of Paris Saint-Germain’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final, Spanish football icon Carles Puyol has publicly praised his former teammate and current PSG head coach, Luis Enrique, for leading the French giants to their first-ever Champions League title and an unprecedented quadruple.
The final, played at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Saturday, saw PSG dismantle the Serie A champions in one of the most dominant performances in modern European football. Goals from Desire Doue (2), Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Senny Mayulu completed a memorable night for the Parisians — and a crowning achievement for Enrique.
Puyol’s Message: “You Are the Best, Brother!”
Reacting to PSG’s historic night, Carles Puyol, former Barcelona and Spain captain, took to Instagram to express his admiration and pride for Enrique’s managerial milestone.
“You are the best, Brother!!!! ❤️ @luisenrique_2121 Congratulations!!!!” Puyol wrote in Catalan, later translated by Google.
The message reflected both professional respect and deep personal friendship between the two Spanish legends, who shared many battles on the pitch during their time at FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
Brothers in Arms: From Barcelona to Global Glory
Puyol and Enrique were teammates at Barcelona between 1999 and 2004, and later played together for La Roja. Over the years, the duo featured in 117 matches together across all competitions, although they only combined for a single goal contribution.
Despite the modest numbers, their partnership represented a shared commitment to discipline, tactical intelligence, and leadership — qualities that Enrique has successfully transferred from his playing days into his coaching career.
Their reunion — even from afar — in the context of PSG’s continental success has drawn attention to the legacy of the early 2000s Barcelona core that now shapes elite football management.
PSG’s Historic Quadruple
Luis Enrique’s PSG side didn’t just win the Champions League — they made history by completing a quadruple, the first in the club’s existence. The four titles include:
- Ligue 1
- Coupe de France
- Trophée des Champions
- UEFA Champions League
This clean sweep makes PSG only the second club in football history to achieve the prestigious quadruple in a single season. The first team to do so was Celtic’s Lisbon Lions in the 1966–67 season, under the legendary Jock Stein.
Enrique now joins an elite managerial class, being only the second coach to lead two different clubs to the continental treble — first with Barcelona in 2014/15, and now with PSG in 2024/25.
A Tactical Masterclass in Munich
PSG’s win against Inter Milan was more than just a result — it was a statement. The team, blending youth and experience, overpowered the Italians from the outset. Midfield dynamo Vitinha, dubbed “the new Xavi” by Steven Gerrard, orchestrated proceedings with poise. Meanwhile, teenage sensations like Desire Doue and Mayulu showcased the depth of talent that Enrique has nurtured this season.
PSG’s pressing, passing accuracy, and relentless transitions highlighted Enrique’s tactical evolution since his time at Barcelona. The Catalan coach has developed a high-octane, possession-based system that neutralized Inter’s strength in midfield and left their defense exposed.
Enrique’s Managerial Renaissance
When Luis Enrique took over PSG in the summer of 2023, there were questions about whether he could replicate the success he enjoyed at Barcelona. After a difficult transitional first season, he has silenced all critics in spectacular fashion.
Speaking after the match, Enrique paid tribute to the players and staff:
“This season has been the result of belief, sacrifice, and unity. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, and I thank my players for trusting the process. PSG has waited a long time for this moment — now it’s theirs forever.”
Enrique also acknowledged the support from former teammates like Puyol:
“Puyi has always been a warrior and a friend. To receive such words from him means a lot. We shared battles on the pitch, and now we celebrate victories off it.”
Catalan Brotherhood on a European Stage
The Puyol-Enrique bond is emblematic of a generation of Spanish footballers who transitioned seamlessly into leadership roles. While Puyol has stayed out of management, Enrique has carried the torch with tactical innovation and emotional resilience, including during his tragic personal losses and time as Spain’s national team coach.
Puyol, in previous interviews, has described Enrique as a “genius” who “reads the game better than anyone else,” noting that his former teammate’s attention to detail and emotional intelligence set him apart as a modern coach.
What’s Next for PSG and Enrique?
After conquering Europe and sweeping domestic titles, PSG faces the challenge of sustaining their dominance. With young stars emerging and a clear tactical identity, the club appears well-positioned for continued success.
Enrique, however, remains grounded. When asked about next season, he responded:
“Winning is addictive, but it’s not easy. We start from scratch again. We celebrate now — but tomorrow, we plan. That’s football.”
The Legacy Grows
Luis Enrique’s PSG journey has elevated his status from successful coach to all-time great. With his name now etched in history books alongside European legends, the endorsement from Carles Puyol only adds a poetic touch to a glorious chapter.
As PSG lifts its first Champions League trophy, fans in Paris, Barcelona, and around the world know that behind this historic moment is a visionary leader — one who inspired legends like Puyol and now shapes legends of tomorrow.
