Is a Champions League Three-Peat Within PSG's Reach?
Luis Enrique's Paris Saint-Germain has already stamped their mark as one of the elite teams in the Champions League by winning back-to-back titles. Now, their aim is set on achieving a rare three-peat.
PSG captain Marquinhos admitted on the eve of the new season, "Doing the treble is the objective, but we know it’s going to be very difficult and that there will be obstacles in our way."
The Rise of PSG Under Luis Enrique
After years of falling short in Europe, PSG transformed into a dominant force once Luis Enrique, former coach of Barcelona and Spain, took charge in 2023. His first year saw them reach the semifinals, and with the departure of Kylian Mbappe in 2024, the team no longer relied on just a couple of stars.
The squad overwhelmed Europe en route to their first Champions League crown in 2025, demolishing Inter Milan 5-0 in the final. They then edged out Premier League champions Arsenal on penalties in last season’s final held in Budapest. This made PSG only the second club since 1992 to win consecutive titles.
Chasing Legendary Company
A three-peat at this level would place PSG alongside some of the most legendary teams in European history. Real Madrid achieved this feat under Zinedine Zidane from 2016 to 2018. Earlier giants include Johan Cruyff’s Ajax and Franz Beckenbauer’s Bayern Munich, who both won three straight European Cups in the 1970s, while Alfredo Di Stefano’s Madrid grabbed five in a row between 1956 and 1960.
PSG hope to join these exclusive ranks. Yet, today’s Champions League demands more than ever. The revamped format meant PSG had to play 17 matches to secure each of their last two trophies.
PSG’s Style and Squad Depth
When firing on all cylinders, PSG’s attack, led by Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, can be relentless. Their pace is terrifying, supported by full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes. Midfield maestro Vitinha controls the tempo, outplaying physically stronger opponents.
This setup helped PSG clinch two Champions League titles and two UEFA Super Cups despite facing 18 matches against English Premier League teams over two seasons.
Challenges Ahead: Fixture Congestion and Squad Changes
The sheer number of games may pose the biggest threat. PSG played 121 competitive matches in the last two seasons with barely a three-week break due to the Club World Cup. Plus, many players took part in major 2024 tournaments and had shortened summer breaks because of the World Cup.
That might explain their sluggish start this season. Still, PSG’s dominance in Ligue 1 remains vast. They remain favorites to win again, even if they rest key players to keep them fresh for European battles.
Their Champions League group begins with Slovan Bratislava, a relatively manageable opponent. However, October brings tougher tests with trips to Manchester City and hosting Barcelona.
Transfer Moves and New Faces
PSG rarely sell their top stars but recently parted ways with Bradley Barcola, who moved to Liverpool for a large fee. Other squad members like Goncalo Ramos, Lee Kang-in, and Ibrahim Mbaye have also left.
New arrivals include Maghnes Akliouche, a French World Cup player, and Ferran Torres, Spain’s last-minute hero in North America. Torres previously played under Luis Enrique for Spain.
"He was like a footballing father for me when I played for him in the national team," Torres said after signing from Barcelona.
Luis Enrique’s Long-Term Vision
More than any star player, Luis Enrique is the driving force behind PSG’s success. He recently extended his contract until 2030, signaling his commitment to the project.
"It is the first time I have stayed four years at the same club, and I am more motivated than I was in my first year," he said, insisting he has not lost his hunger. That is a warning sign for anyone chasing PSG.
