Sports
Désiré Doué Becomes Youngest Player to Start Champions League Final

Munich, Germany — PSG manager Luis Enrique has made his final decision regarding the starting eleven for the Champions League final against Inter Milan. After days of speculation, he chose to start 19-year-old Désiré Doué over Bradley Barcola, marking Doué’s historic moment as the youngest French player to start a Champions League final.
At just 19 years and 362 days, Doué’s appearance in the starting lineup creates an impressive milestone in the history of French football. His selection comes after a strong season, demonstrating his talent during crucial matches.
The stakes are high for the Paris Saint-Germain, who are seeking their first-ever Champions League title. They’ve previously faced disappointments, having reached the final in 2020 but losing to Bayern Munich. Doué, reflecting on his achievement, said, “It’s a dream come true. I’m excited to contribute to our team’s success and make history tonight.”
Meanwhile, Enrique expressed confidence in his team, stating during a pre-match conference, “We need to play well and manage our emotions. This is a final, and we have the mentality to win.” His words reassured not only his players but also the supporters who packed the Allianz Arena.
In the lead-up to the match, a vibrant atmosphere enveloped Munich. Supporters of both teams gathered, with PSG fans particularly noticeable, chanting and celebrating their team’s chance at glory. However, tensions arose as reports indicated some altercations between fans in the city’s metro system, necessitating police intervention.
PSG’s captain, Marquinhos, emphasized the importance of focus, reminding his teammates, “We must handle this moment calmly. It’s about teamwork and execution. Every detail counts.” With players and fans rallying together, all eyes will be on the pitch as PSG looks to secure its first Champions League trophy.
As the match approaches, the anticipation builds for a showdown that could rewrite PSG’s history, with Doué playing a crucial role in their pursuit of victory.