Luis Enrique believes Paris Saint-Germain are 'ahead' of Arsenal in terms of motivation to win the Champions League, as the defending champions are hungry to retain their title. The French side face Arsenal in Saturday's final in Budapest, brimming with confidence after defeating the north London club in last season's semi-finals.
If PSG triumph again, they would become only the second club in the modern era to successfully defend the Champions League. When asked about Arsenal's quest for their first European Cup, Enrique responded: 'Yes that's powerful but you know how powerful trying to win the second one in a row is? It's bigger. So we're ahead.'
The Spaniard also had high praise for Mikel Arteta. 'No, I am not surprised especially with what he has done this year. They are absolutely worthy of winning the Premier League,' he said. 'They were the best team and the most consistent. It was not always easy with City on their tails, but they deserve the title. Arteta has been there for six-and-a-half years so he knows the team inside out.'
Ousmane Dembele revealed that PSG have been preparing for Arsenal's set-piece threat and confirmed he is fully fit after a calf injury scare. The Ballon d'Or winner suffered a calf strain on May 17 against Paris FC, which initially cast doubt on his participation, but he is now ready. 'No, I wasn't scared about missing the final,' said Dembele. 'I stopped when I felt the niggle, and I had 10-15 days to get ready. I am 100 per cent ready and raring to go.'
On Arsenal's progress, Dembele added: 'Arsenal are an excellent team — we've seen them run away with the Premier League title but also what they showed us in the league phase. Their journey has been great, they deserve to be in the final. They play great football, and are great across the board. Set-pieces, everyone knows that. They have got an exceptional coach.'
