Javier Pastore was all smiles as he carried the trophy out, beaming with joy for his teammates. As he approached PSG captain Marquinhos, the weight of the moment hit him. He wished it was him lifting the trophy high instead. Pastore, now 35, was PSG’s first big signing after Qatar Sports Investment took over in 2011. They paid €42 million for him, hoping to find the next Lionel Messi.
Ten years later, PSG did secure Messi, especially as the 2022 World Cup was hosted in Qatar. The world watched Messi don a traditional bisht from the Emir, celebrating Argentina’s victory. Yet, he still couldn’t bring a Champions League title to Paris.
Fans wondered: Who would finally secure that champion’s title for PSG? Many had high hopes for Kylian Mbappe. However, he left for Real Madrid, which just celebrated its 15th Champions League title. It appears he believed in their chances more than PSG’s.
As Pastore stepped back from the trophy at Allianz Arena, players walked up to admire it. Desire Doue, only 19, was the unexpected hero. The UEFA Man of the Match, he led PSG to their first Champions League win in 32 years, a monumental achievement for French football.
“I can’t find the words!” he exclaimed, reflecting the excitement many felt. Inter struggled to contain him. His sharp moves and quick thinking contributed to the win. His first goal was a lucky bounce, but his second showcased his skill and composure.
Doue wasn’t just a player’s name; he became a breakthrough star. With two goals and an assist, he not only shined but also made history as one of the youngest to score in a Champions League final. “Just doing my job,” he said casually, a testament to his talent and poise.
This season marked a clever shift for PSG under sporting director Luis Campos. While they spent nearly €250 million, the signings focused on young and promising talent rather than big-name stars. They acquired Doue from Rennes for €50 million, a significant investment that made waves but didn’t grab as much attention. PSG, alongside teams like Barcelona, seems to have a vision for the future.
At the Allianz Arena, where a young Lamine Yamal made headlines last summer, Doue wrote his own story. His performance against Inter was more than just personal glory; it symbolized a turning point for PSG and French football. “We’re rewriting history,” he said, proving they’re committed to creating a new legacy.
In wrapping up their long quest for silverware, PSG not only fell back on past ambitions but also embraced a fresh future led by young stars like Doue. It’s an exciting time for football, and fans are eager to see what comes next.
Source link
Paris Saint-Germain, Champions League, Premier League, Soccer