PSG retained their Champions League crown with a hard-fought victory over Arsenal in the final, and Joao Neves didn't hold back in his assessment. The Portuguese midfielder insisted his side fully merited the triumph because they were the only team that showed a genuine desire to play football on the night.
Speaking after the final whistle, an elated Neves basked in the glory of a second European title in as many seasons. "The emotion is there," he said, emphasizing that the joy came not just from winning but from sharing the moment with such exceptional teammates, a dedicated staff, and an ambitious leadership group. His words painted a picture of a club united.
Neves, who moved to the Parc des Princes last summer, described the transfer as the best decision of his life. His rapid integration and ascending influence in midfield have been pivotal to PSG's domestic and continental dominance. This latest medal only reinforces the wisdom of his choice.
The final itself was a tale of contrasting intentions. According to Neves, Arsenal arrived with a defensive mindset, content to sit back and avoid risk, whereas the Parisians were relentless in their pursuit of front-foot football. "We deserved it because we were the only ones who wanted to play," he declared, a veiled critique of the Gunners' passive approach.
This year's campaign proved far more arduous than the previous one. Defending the title brought heightened expectations and a target on PSG's back. Neves acknowledged the increased physical toll and the tactical battles they had to navigate, making the eventual success all the sweeter.
The match was a grueling contest, with every ball contested fiercely. But PSG's superior quality and unwavering attacking intent eventually broke Arsenal's resistance. The French champions dictated the tempo, controlled possession, and created the clearest openings, leaving their opponents chasing shadows for much of the evening.
Neves' role in dictating play from deep was instrumental. His composure under pressure and incisive passing allowed PSG to transition quickly and maintain sustained pressure. It was a performance that epitomized the modern midfielder: equal parts destroyer and creator.
In a lighter moment, Luis Campos – the club's influential sporting advisor – interrupted Neves' interview by jumping on his back in celebration. The spontaneous gesture underscored the tight-knit bond within the squad and the euphoria rippling through the organization. For Neves, it was another sign that he had found a football home.
With this triumph, PSG have etched their name deeper into Champions League folklore. Back-to-back titles place them among the elite dynasties of the modern era. The project, fueled by Qatari investment and shrewd recruitment like Neves, is now delivering the ultimate prizes with regularity.
For Arsenal, defeat will sting. After a remarkable run to the final, Mikel Arteta's side fell at the last hurdle, unable to impose their game plan. The result may prompt soul-searching in North London, but PSG's dominance on this stage cannot be understated.
As the celebrations continue in Paris, the focus will soon shift to the future. Can PSG maintain this supremacy? With a young core including Neves, the foundations are in place for sustained success. For now, though, the midfielder and his comrades are determined to savor every moment.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.