For years, the Champions League was dominated by two giants: Real Madrid and Manchester City. In the last four seasons, at least one of these teams made it to the final, and since 2020, no other team has lifted the trophy. Since 2014, only Spanish or English clubs have won, with Bayern Munich being the sole exception during the pandemic. This predictability has dulled the thrill of a tournament that should be unpredictable, diverse, and open to surprises.

This Saturday in Munich, a new champion will be crowned. Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan are set to clash in a final that promises a breath of fresh air. France and Italy, both with rich football traditions, have a chance to reclaim their place at the pinnacle. Serie A hasn't triumphed since 2010, and Ligue 1's last victory was in 1993 when Olympique de Marseille won the inaugural edition of the competition's new format. Since then, only Monaco in 2004 and PSG in 2020 have reached the final for France.

However, the PSG in this final is not the star-studded, media-obsessed team of the past. The club has shifted away from its star-centric model featuring the likes of Messi, Neymar, or Mbappé. Under Luis Enrique's leadership, a cultural transformation is underway, focusing on young French talents, a clear game plan, tactical discipline, and team cohesion. The change is evident. The team plays as a unit, defends with discipline, and combines with intelligence. Watching them is finally a delight.

The most striking example is Ousmane Dembélé, who has evolved from a chronic individualist to a key player in the collective machine. Repositioned at the heart of the attack, he contributes as a scorer and playmaker. Alongside him, the Georgian Khvicha Kvaratskhelia—acquired in winter—adds directness and bravery, reminiscent of players like Franck Ribéry.

PSG, already a dominant force in the national market due to its budget, now combines technical direction, planning, and a project with identity. Like Bayern in Germany, it has become a magnet for local talent, ensuring continuity. Another shared advantage with the Bavarian club is the relatively low level of domestic competition, unlike the Premier League's brutal internal demands. Even this year, Guardiola's City had to fight to secure third place. In France, barring any major surprises, PSG is assured of its ongoing presence in Europe. Bayern hasn't missed out since 2007.

On the opposite side is Inter, repeating their final appearance from 2023. Back then, the path was easier. This time, they have eliminated giants like Bayern and Barcelona. Their secret lies in their adherence to the hallmarks of Italian football: tactical rigor, defensive solidarity, and contagious enthusiasm. They may lack first-rate stars, but they have a mature, serious, committed team. Each player maximizes their strengths as if it were their last chance. It brings to mind Chelsea in 2012 or Inter themselves in 2010, champions under Mourinho.

As a result, City and Madrid will watch the final from home. Guardiola, after nine years at the helm of an impeccable project, has lost his spark. His cycle might be nearing its end. Ancelotti, despite his recent title, struggled watching his team concede five clear chances in the final. The Italian coach, the most decorated in Champions League history, bids farewell to Europe and heads to Brazil.

The big question is whether this season will be an exception or the start of a deeper change. The new PSG model seems promising. Previous formulas have repeatedly failed, but it might succeed in its first year with a more team-oriented project. Conversely, Inter's style appears less sustainable long-term. They are far from the Italian dominance of the 1990s.

What is certain is that the five major leagues—Spain, England, Germany, Italy, and France—once again have real chances of winning. This is a minimum requirement for the Champions League to regain some of its diversity. Nevertheless, it would be desirable for the rest of Europe to also aspire to more.