Luis Enrique: ‘Arteta’s Tactics Nearly Killed Me’ in UCL Thriller
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager Luis Enrique has heaped praise on Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta following their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash, admitting that Arteta’s tactical approach posed significant challenges.
In the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory, dominating the first half with aggressive pressing and tactical superiority. Enrique acknowledged Arsenal’s dominance during this period, stating, “Arsenal were much better in terms of pressure, intensity; they won every duel. It’s impossible to play for a positive result when you don’t win any of your duels on the pitch”…….CONTINUE READING
Despite the setback, PSG managed to overturn the deficit in the second leg at Parc des Princes, winning 2-1 and advancing to the final with a 3-1 aggregate score. Enrique credited his team’s resilience and the decisive performances of players like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Fabián Ruiz for the comeback.
Reflecting on the tactical battle, Enrique remarked, “Arteta’s tactics nearly killed me; it was a very intense match.” He further praised Arteta as “one of the best coaches on the market at the moment,” highlighting the transformation he has brought to Arsenal.
The mutual respect between the two managers was evident, with Arteta also expressing admiration for Enrique’s coaching prowess, describing him as having “unbelievable power” and being a significant influence on his own managerial career.
As PSG prepares to face Inter Milan in the Champions League final, Enrique’s acknowledgment of Arteta’s tactical acumen underscores the high regard in which the Arsenal manager is held within the football community.
