As Paris Saint-Germain progresses towards the UEFA Champions League final, manager Luis Enrique reminisces about his previous final appearance, recalling not just the title won with Barcelona but the cherished memory with his daughter Xana, who passed away at the age of nine in 2019 due to bone cancer.

“I have wonderful memories because my daughter adored celebrations, and I’m certain she’s still holding them wherever she is. I have a fantastic photo from the Champions League final in Berlin, after winning, where I’m with her planting an FC Barcelona flag on the pitch. I aspire to recreate this moment with PSG. She won’t be there physically, but her spirit will definitely be present, and that means everything to me. I’m motivated to continue with what life offers, sharing it with my family.”

This latest declaration follows Enrique’s ongoing tributes to Xana, emphasizing her vital role in their family after her death. She is remembered as the guiding star of the family, informing many career milestones for Enrique. Notably, during Spain’s World Cup match against Germany, which coincided with Xana’s birthday in 2022, he prepared an emotional Instagram post emphasizing her memory.

Enrique further highlighted his family’s initiative to preserve Xana’s memory through the Xana Foundation, which aids families with children facing severe illnesses. He acknowledges the privilege he and his wife had to focus entirely on their daughter, advocating for families who may not share the same flexibility.

Reflecting on his time with Xana, he expressed gratitude for the years spent together:

“Should I count myself as fortunate or unfortunate? I see myself as fortunate, profoundly so. My daughter was with us for nine beautiful years, and we have thousands of memories with her, creating incredible moments together.”