Luis Enrique reached the pinnacle of his career in Munich by leading Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League victory. As the mastermind behind the triumph, Enrique crafted a dynasty, reminiscent of his success with Barcelona in 2015 but this time entirely his own creation. Players like Vitinha, Neves, and Pacho, who shone brightly in the championship, were integrated into Enrique’s visionary model, elevating them to stardom. His approach was rooted in tactical brilliance and a doctrine of courage, rebellion, optimism, and solidarity, resulting in a team so entertaining and infectious that it captivated the fans.

Enrique transformed into a fan idol, honored by supporters with a massive banner in Munich depicting him with his late daughter Xana, who passed away in 2019 at nine years old. During the celebration, a fan gifted him a black shirt from the Xana Foundation, which supports children with severe illnesses. In this poignant moment, Enrique donned the shirt, laughing and crying simultaneously. He expressed, "Xana is always with family and friends, no matter the outcome. It’s about drawing positive from negative experiences. Today, she’d be running around here, a bit older. The fans’ gesture was touching, but winning a Champions League is not necessary to remember my daughter. She’s always present, especially in defeat. Making so many fans happy is ultimate happiness."

At 55, Luis Enrique speaks French fluently but chooses not to use it publicly. Despite his challenging and proud persona, he has inspired more affection among the crowd at Parc des Princes than any previous coach of the club, founded in 1970. With twelve million residents, Paris is Europe’s largest football nursery, boasting numerous licenses. A significant number declare themselves PSG followers, with Enrique emerging as their new prophet.

"We started the match very well," Enrique analyzed. "We managed the training week excellently, aiming for the right mindset. Our team pressed with immense intensity. Ousmane Dembélé pressured Sommer, Acerbi, Bastoni fiercely, preventing them from thinking. We were fortunate with our goals, giving us initial control."

Enrique continued, "On my first day, I stated my main goal was to bring important trophies. I hope to keep delivering them. The team embodies PSG’s ideals, relentlessly pressing and running regardless of results. Next month, we have the chance to win our fifth title of the season at the FIFA Club World Cup. It’s an incredible competition, akin to the World Cup and Euro for national teams."

Enrique will travel to the US with his European champion team and a player whose paradigm he has shifted: "I’d award the Ballon d’Or to Ousmane Dembélé for his defense," he stated, breaking his usual habit to single out the player’s merits. Dembélé, once a solitary adventurer, channeled his energy to highlight others, embodying team leadership through humility. "I’d give him the Ballon d’Or for his pressing," Enrique emphasized.

Dembélé had scored 33 goals by Saturday, becoming the most prominent attacker in a team known for its collective actions. Against Inter, he underwent a transformation, chasing opponents to disrupt their plays, embodying PSG’s spirit. This contrasts the hedonistic approach envisioned by the Qatari princes when they acquired the club in 2011.