After their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Arsenal in the final, Paris Saint-Germain have been rewarded with five players in UEFA's official 2023/24 Champions League Team of the Season. The selection, announced by European football's governing body, reflects the French champions' dominance throughout the competition. Ousmane Dembélé, Nuno Mendes, Marquinhos, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Vitinha all earned spots, with Kvaratskhelia also named Player of the Tournament.
The team, which includes representatives from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, Premier League runners-up Arsenal, and La Liga's Atlético Madrid, highlights the multi-national flavour of this season's elite club competition. PSG's quintet leads all clubs, underlining their impressive run to a first-ever Champions League crown.
Kvaratskhelia's journey from Napoli's Serie A title-winner to PSG's talisman reached its pinnacle as he was crowned the competition's best player. The Georgian winger consistently troubled defences with his dribbling and creativity, scoring crucial goals in the knockout stages. His inclusion at the top of the XI is a testament to his transformative impact since arriving in Paris.
Vitinha's selection marks a remarkable personal milestone: the Portuguese midfielder becomes the first player to appear in three consecutive UEFA Champions League Teams of the Season. Having been the sole PSG representative in the previous two editions, his consistency has been a bedrock for the club's evolution under manager Luis Enrique. His ability to control tempo and break lines was vital in the final and across the campaign.
Defensive stalwart Marquinhos once again anchors the backline. The Brazilian captain led by example, marshalling a defence that remained resolute through the latter stages. His leadership and aerial dominance were on full display in the final, where he kept a potent Arsenal attack at bay for much of the match.
Left-back Nuno Mendes' recovery from injury and subsequent form earned him a spot. The Portuguese defender offered width and defensive solidity, while his overlapping runs provided an outlet in attack. His partnership with Kvaratskhelia on the left flank was a recurring threat throughout the knockout rounds.
Ousmane Dembélé's creativity and flair on the right wing completed PSG's attacking trio in the XI. He found a new level in this Champions League campaign, consistently unlocking opposition defences and adding a crucial dimension to PSG's attack with his directness.
Outside of PSG, Bayern Munich's Harry Kane and Michael Olise earned spots. Kane, also present in the 2022/23 Team of the Season, continued his prolific form in the competition. Olise, the young French international, impressed in his debut Champions League campaign with mature performances.
Arsenal's representation comes through Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhães, and goalkeeper David Raya. Despite falling short in the final, the Gunners' defensive resilience was a cornerstone of their run. Rice's box-to-box energy, Gabriel's commanding presence, and Raya's crucial saves were instrumental throughout.
Atlético Madrid's Marcos Llorente completes the XI. The versatile defender/midfielder was a key figure in Diego Simeone's side, which reached the quarter-finals. His work rate and tactical flexibility were hallmarks of Atlético's gritty campaign.
The selection raises questions about the balance of power in European football. PSG's five players suggest a shifting landscape, as the French club finally translates immense financial backing into continental glory. For a team often criticised for individual brilliance masking structural weaknesses, this Team of the Season nod points to a cohesive unit.
As the new season approaches, these accolades provide individuals with confidence and recognition. For Kvaratskhelia, it solidifies his status among the world's elite. For Vitinha, the historic third selection cements his legacy. For PSG, it serves as a benchmark for sustained success in a competition that has long eluded them. Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
