Emotional tribute in Munich: PSG fans honor the deceased daughter of Luis Enrique na Champions League Triumph
Luis Enrique had a moving tribute for his deceased daughter in the aftermath of the thumping victory of Paris Saint-Germain over Inter Milan in the Champions League final. PSG claimed their first victory in the competition in a certain style, in which Inter 5-0 was beaten in Munich, and there were emotional scenes after the last whistle.
Enrique lost his daughter Xana in August 2019 at the age of just nine. She was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, just a few months in advance.
The Spanish manager had previously led Barcelona to Glory in the Champions League, in 2015 – and a moment of that night resonated on Saturday in Munich. Xana was brought on the field and a Barca flag planted in the grass at an iconic moment.
After PSG's thrashing was confirmed, Enrique did not last long before he turned into a new T-shirt, which showed Xana's triumphant moment. Minutes later the PSG Ultras unfolded a gigantic Tifo with exactly the same photo.
Enrique looked full of emotion when he stood in front of the PSG supporters, after he had delivered a Treble for the second time in his career.
The 55-year-old talked movingly about how Xana continues to lead him and his work almost six years after she died.
“I have incredible memories because my daughter loved parties, and I am sure she is still throwing them where she is,” Enrique said before the game
“I remember an incredible photo that I have with her on the Champions League final in Berlin, after winning the Champions League, planting an FC Barcelona flag on the field.
“I hope to be able to do the same with PSG. My daughter will not be there, she will not be physical, but she will be spiritual, and that is very important to me. I am motivated to continue with what life gives me, sharing it with my family.”
Speaking of TNT sports, the former Liverpool -captain Steven Gerrard was the manager with praise. “Does Luis Enrique learn to be mentioned in the same breath as Carlo Ancelotti, Jose Mourinho or Pep Guardiola?” he said. “The answer is yes.
“This team that he has put together and compiled in the past year or two can beat you in a certain way. The talent in this team – it is a special group of players and they are also coached by a special person.”