Luis Enrique snubs Arsenal in Champions League verdict after PSG’s triumph

While Kane’s response won praise, social media users were quick to voice disappointment in Saka’s brief appearance. One user wrote: “Bukayo Saka winning no fans by refusing to be interviewed whilst on the F1 grid.” Another added: “That should be the last time Bukayo Saka gets invited to the F1 grid.”

Still, some defended the young Arsenal star, pointing out his right to privacy and focus, especially with international duties looming.

The event itself was a historic one, as McLaren locked out the front row of the grid for the first time at the Spanish Grand Prix since 1998, with Oscar Piastri starting on pole ahead of teammate Lando Norris. Mercedes’ George Russell and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton started fourth and fifth respectively, just behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

In their journey to the final, PSG defeated Arsenal 3-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals — a round in which Mikel Arteta’s side failed to replicate their blistering form from their quarter-final win over reigning champions Real Madrid. The Gunners had stunned Europe with a 5-1 aggregate demolition of Los Blancos, but came up short against PSG, losing 1-0 at the Emirates and 2-1 in Paris.

Despite that, Enrique omitted Arsenal when asked to name PSG’s most challenging opponents in this season’s campaign. Speaking to CBS Sports after the final, the Spanish tactician instead credited Premier League sides Liverpool and Aston Villa.

“There were a few matches this season that tested us,” Luis Enrique said. “Liverpool, for example, made things very difficult, especially in transitions. Aston Villa, too, were one of the more organised sides we came up against.”

The absence of any mention of Arsenal raised eyebrows, particularly among fans, given the Gunners’ semi-final appearance. It adds salt to the wound of what has been a disappointing season for the North London club, who finished second in the Premier League for a third straight year and once again ended the campaign without silverware — trailing eventual champions Liverpool by 10 points.

While Arsenal look ahead to another crucial summer rebuild, PSG celebrated an unforgettable night. Enrique’s emotional reaction was heightened by a touching tribute from the club’s fans, who unveiled a giant tifo in memory of his late daughter Xana, who passed away from cancer in 2019 at the age of nine.

“I’m very happy,” Luis Enrique said. “It was very emotional at the end with the banner from the fans for my family. But I always think about my daughter. It means a lot. It’s so nice but I don’t need to win the Champions League to remember her. My daughter is always with us, especially when we lost. With my family, enjoying everything and trying to get the positives, even in the bad moments.”