Lucas Hernandez, the 30-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender, spoke to UEFA ahead of the 2025-2026 Champions League final against Arsenal at the Puskas Arena on Saturday, May 30 (kick-off at 6 p.m., CET). He emphasized his team’s strong determination, which will be bolstered by significant fan support and a solid team spirit.
Hernandez: “We can make club history again.”
“As we approach this final, do you feel anything different? Any particular pressure?
No, honestly. We had a day and a half off at the beginning of the week. But we’re all aware of what’s coming: it’s the most important match of the season. We can make club history again, make history for Paris Saint-Germain, and even make history for French football. There’s a lot of excitement, and we can’t wait for this week to be over so we can get to the big day.
Is it important to know that many fans will be there to support you?
Yes, of course. We know they’re our twelfth man. They’re always there at every match, and we feel their support on the pitch. Honestly, I think they’re the best fans in the world. We know they’ll be there and that they’ll push us from start to finish.
Hernandez: “We’ve shown that we’re a…” “A real team”
What was your most memorable moment this season in the Champions League?
I would say the end of the match against Bayern. There was this relief after suffering so much during the game. But we showed that we were a real team, especially in the second leg. That’s probably the most memorable moment for me this season.
There’s definitely a special feeling before the Champions League final. A kind of pressure, which isn’t necessarily negative. It’s logical to feel the importance of such a match and to have the desire to win. The Parisians will be determined, just like their opponents.
PSG and Arsenal can make history, even if in different ways. Paris has the opportunity to become the second club to win the Champions League two years in a row, while the Gunners are chasing their first title. It’s a little something extra for a trophy that doesn’t need any additional spice to be desirable.
Without a doubt, everyone will be motivated, and the Parisian fans will be there in force. You can hear them at every match, even when things get tough. It’s a real achievement for the club to have rebuilt that connection. This constant support is a real asset for the team, helping them find the resources to make the difference. There’s also this collective desire that allows individual players to shine. PSG has shown that it’s a very strong contender for the final, especially with its semi-final against Bayern Munich. But beware, Arsenal, while perhaps less spectacular, also has a lot to offer.
