Luis Enrique Hails Arsenal as World’s Best Defensive Side Ahead of Champions League Final Against PSG

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has offered a striking assessment of Arsenal’s capabilities ahead of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League final, describing the Premier League champions as the most complete defensive unit on the planet while also acknowledging their significant attacking threat.

The two clubs are scheduled to meet on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest, Hungary, in what will be one of the most anticipated European finals in recent memory. Speaking in the build-up to the fixture, the Spanish coach was unequivocal in his respect for Mikel Arteta‘s squad.

“Without the ball, they are the best team in the world, and with it, they can score a lot. It is a wonderful combination for them,” Enrique stated. He also addressed Arsenal’s Premier League campaign directly: “I think they deserve to win the league – they have had a brilliant season.”

Enrique further noted that facing Arteta’s side in the final was entirely fitting, pointing to the Basque head coach’s ability to instil a sustained winning mentality at the club across several seasons of consistent development.

Arsenal arrive in Budapest having secured the 2025/26 Premier League title, making the Champions League final an opportunity to complete a continental double. The North London club’s progression to their first European Cup final in decades represents the culmination of a multi-year rebuild under Arteta, who took charge in December 2019 and has steadily transformed the side into one of Europe’s most structured and disciplined outfits.

Statistically, Arsenal’s defensive record throughout the 2025/26 campaign has been among the best in Europe across all major leagues, underpinning Enrique’s characterisation of the side. Their combination of defensive solidity and attacking productivity has drawn widespread recognition from coaches and analysts throughout the season.

For PSG, the final represents another attempt to claim the one major trophy that has eluded the Qatari-owned club for much of their recent history, despite sustained domestic dominance in Ligue 1. Enrique took charge of the Parisian side ahead of the 2023/24 season and oversaw a significant squad restructuring following the departures of several high-profile players. The club’s run to the 2025/26 final signals continued progress under his management.

The outcome in Budapest will carry significant implications for both clubs. A victory for Arsenal would mark one of the most historic achievements in the club’s history, while PSG securing the trophy would validate the long-term project that has defined their ownership era. Kick-off details and broadcast information are expected to be confirmed by UEFA in the days leading up to the final.