Photo via @FabrizioRomano on X

What happened: PSG manager Luis Enrique offered warm words for Arsenal counterpart Mikel Arteta ahead of the Champions League final, calling him 'Mikelito' and recalling their days as teammates as kids. 'I appreciate Mikelito Arteta! He did a great job at Arsenal,' Enrique told reporters. He added the showdown 'will be difficult, hard game but we believe in our football style.'

Why it matters: The remarks frame a final between two managers with shared roots and contrasting paths to Budapest. PSG arrive after a deep knockout run that included Khvicha Kvaratskhelia setting a UCL record with goal contributions in seven straight knockout games, while Arteta's Arsenal continue their first European final push under his stewardship. Enrique's tone signals respect rather than mind games heading into the showpiece.

What to watch: Watch for Arsenal's response and lineup news, plus any tactical hints from Enrique on managing PSG's attacking unit. Pre-match pressers in the coming days should sharpen the picture before kickoff in Budapest.

Sources