Paris Saint-Germain made history on Saturday, finally capturing their first-ever UEFA Champions League title with a stunning 5-0 win over Inter Milan in Munich — the largest margin of victory ever in a Champions League final.
For over a decade, PSG’s Qatari owners invested heavily in star players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar, Kylian Mbappe, and even Lionel Messi. Despite the glittering roster, European glory remained elusive. That changed in 2025 with a bold shift in strategy: Luis Enrique took charge of a young, hungry squad focused on teamwork and intensity rather than individual fame.
PSG’s dominance was clear from the start. Former Inter defender Achraf Hakimi opened the scoring within 20 minutes, followed by a goal from 19-year-old sensation Désiré Doué. The young midfielder doubled his tally in the 63rd minute, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and substitute Senny Mayulu completed the rout with late goals.
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi reflected on the journey: “It’s taken 14 years of hard work, but we are building something for the future. The objective now is to win again.” This victory not only rewards years of persistence but also signals PSG’s arrival as a true European powerhouse.
The team’s average age was under 25, underscoring the youth and energy that powered their win. Veteran captain Marquinhos, who has been with the club since 2013, emotionally credited all past players who came close but couldn’t lift the trophy. “I have suffered and grown with this team. This one is for them,” he said.
Coach Luis Enrique joined an elite group by winning the treble (League, Cup, and Champions League) twice, having previously achieved the feat with Barcelona. His leadership transformed PSG’s style and results, earning praise from players like Hakimi, who called him “the man who changed everything at PSG.”
With the Champions League prize money exceeding €100 million and the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, PSG’s ambitions extend beyond Europe. Their next challenge comes soon against Atletico Madrid in Los Angeles, as they aim to add a fifth trophy this season.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan faced a crushing defeat. Manager Simone Inzaghi admitted his team “didn’t play the final in the best way” and said PSG deserved the win. Fatigue played a role, as Inter had been battling until the last weekend for the Serie A title, unlike PSG, who secured the French league weeks ago.
Italian media didn’t hold back, with headlines such as “Inter Humiliated” and “Not Like This” capturing the bitter disappointment of a team that once ruled Europe but now faced a humbling loss.
PSG’s victory marks just the second time a French club has won the Champions League, after Olympique de Marseille in 1993. With this young, talented squad, it’s clear that PSG’s reign in European football is only beginning.
