Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has admitted that Arsenal’s dominant display against Crystal Palace has left him increasingly concerned ahead of the upcoming Champions League final against Arsenal.
The Spanish coach has reportedly been closely monitoring Arsenal’s recent performances, and their 2-1 victory over Palace at Selhurst Park appears to have reinforced his belief that Mikel Arteta’s side are entering the final in frightening form. Arsenal controlled large spells of the match, created numerous chances, and once again showed the intensity and structure that has defined their remarkable campaign this season.
According to reports surrounding the PSG camp, Enrique has been particularly impressed by Arsenal’s tactical discipline and relentless pressing. The former Barcelona manager recently described Arsenal as one of the best teams in the world without the ball, praising their organisation and ability to suffocate opponents with aggressive pressing and defensive structure.
After watching Arsenal dominate Crystal Palace despite rotating parts of the squad ahead of the European final, Enrique is believed to have become even more wary of the challenge awaiting PSG in Budapest. Arsenal looked composed, physically sharp, and mentally confident throughout the contest. Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke sealed the victory, while young sensation Max Dowman once again attracted attention with a fearless performance.
Sources close to PSG suggest Enrique has warned his players that Arsenal are no longer simply a talented young side but a complete team capable of controlling matches both with and without possession. The PSG boss reportedly believes Arsenal’s midfield balance, defensive organisation, and attacking transitions make them one of the most dangerous teams in Europe right now.
What appears to concern Enrique the most is Arsenal’s confidence. The Gunners have just completed a historic Premier League-winning season and are now chasing a famous European double. Their celebrations after defeating Crystal Palace reflected a squad full of belief, unity, and momentum heading into the biggest match of the season.
Enrique knows his PSG side possess enormous attacking quality through stars like Ousmane Dembele and Achraf Hakimi, but he also understands that Arsenal’s defensive shape could frustrate the French champions. The PSG manager has repeatedly stressed the importance of pressing and defensive work from his forwards, highlighting how modern football is no longer just about attacking flair but also work rate and intensity.
Speaking internally ahead of the final, Enrique is said to have pointed to Arsenal’s performance at Selhurst Park as proof that Arteta’s side are peaking at exactly the right time. Even under difficult weather conditions and with title celebrations surrounding the occasion, Arsenal maintained focus and control for most of the game.
For Arsenal fans, Enrique’s comments will only increase belief that their team has earned the respect of Europe’s elite. Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have transformed into a side capable of dominating domestically while competing toe-to-toe with the strongest clubs on the continent.
The upcoming Champions League final is now being viewed as a clash between two footballing philosophies. PSG’s explosive attacking power against Arsenal’s disciplined structure and relentless pressing. Analysts across Europe believe it could become one of the most tactical finals in recent years.
Despite PSG entering the match with world-class talent and huge European experience, Enrique reportedly fears Arsenal’s momentum may be the deciding factor. The North London club look united, hungry, and fully convinced they can conquer Europe for the first time in their history.
And after seeing the way Arsenal dismantled Crystal Palace with authority and confidence, it seems even one of Europe’s most respected managers is beginning to worry about what Arteta’s side could do on the grandest stage of all.