Luis Enrique in emotional tribute to daughter Xana, who died from cancer aged nine, after winning Champions League
LUIS ENRIQUE paid an emotional tribute to his late daughter Xana after winning the Champions League.
Enrique led Paris Saint-Germain to the holy grail of European football for the first time ever with a record-breaking 5-0 win over Inter Milan.
Desire Doue led the way with two goals and an assist.
Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Senny Mayulu were also on target as PSG inflicted the biggest-ever European Cup final defeat on helpless Inter.
At the final whistle, Enrique celebrated by hugging wife Elena, son Pacho, 26, and daughter Sira, 25.
The result marked the Spanish boss’ second Champions League win after leading Barcelona to glory 10 years ago.
But Enrique also used the moment to pay tribute to youngest daughter Xana, who tragically died in 2019 at the age of nine from bone cancer.
Following 2015’s UCL win, Xana famously waved a Barcelona flag as proud dad Enrique watched on.
A decade later, the gaffer remembered his daughter as he switched into a black T-shirt bearing her name.
The top also showed a picture of two cartoon characters, one little and one large, each clutching a flag bearing PSG’s club crest.
Meanwhile in the stands, French fans also paid tribute with a tifo showing Enrique planting a PSG flag into the ground with Xana watching on while wearing their club shirt.
Fans were left with tears in their eyes as they reacted to the tributes.
One said: “My heart is so full of joy for this man and his little angel.”
Another declared: “He’s made sure Xana is with him in victory again.”
One noted: “Xana is with you today.”
Another added: “I’m glad he won for her.”
Speaking before the final, Enrique revealed that Xana would be with him on the sideline in spirit.
Enrique said: “I remember an incredible photo I have with my daughter, after winning the Champions League, placing a Barca flag on the pitch.
“I wish I could do the same with PSG. She won’t be there physically, but she’ll be there spiritually and that’s very important to me.”
After the final whistle, Enrique added: “Xana is not physically here, but she is always connected to me and she is enjoying this time with us.”
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