Enrique Hails “Beautiful” and “Emotional” Tribute

MUNICH: Following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) dominant 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in Saturday’s Champions League final, PSG coach Luis Enrique lauded the club’s fanbase for their touching tribute to his late daughter, Xana. Xana tragically passed away in 2019 at the age of nine after battling bone cancer.

Enrique, visibly moved and wearing a black T-shirt in memory of his daughter, was parading with the Champions League trophy when supporters unveiled a tifo banner depicting Xana in a PSG jersey, with her father symbolically planting the club’s flag on the field.

The artwork drew inspiration from an iconic photograph of Enrique and Xana planting a Barcelona flag on the Olympiastadion pitch in Berlin after the Spanish team’s Champions League triumph against Juventus in 2015.

Expressing his feelings about the tribute, Enrique described it as both “beautiful” and “emotional”.

“It was profoundly emotional. It was a beautiful gesture that the supporters thought of me and my family,” Enrique conveyed to reporters during the post-match press conference.

“I do not require a victory or a Champions League title to remember my daughter. She is in my thoughts every day. She remains with our family, and I sense her presence even in moments of defeat.

“It is about cherishing the memories we created together, focusing on the positive aspects that emerged from the adversities for both myself and my family.”

Enrique affirmed his enduring love for Xana, stating that she resides within his heart and that no trophy is needed to keep her memory alive.

“Xana remains perpetually with us. We think of her constantly, and our love for her is unending. She will forever reside in our hearts,” Enrique declared.

“I imagine she would be running among us here. It’s a comforting thought, and it’s heartwarming to share it with family and friends.

“While I appreciated the banner deeply, I don’t require a trophy to remember my daughter.”