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Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) just rewrote their history books in the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League. Under the leadership of Luis Enrique, the French capital club didn’t just reach the final—they did it most dramatically and dominantly possible: by knocking out four top Premier League teams along the way.
Thanks to their ruthless performances, PSG earned themselves a new nickname this season: “The Premier League Killer.” And to be fair, it’s a title they fully deserve. Not every day do you see one club take down a whole lineup of English giants, each known for their physicality, tactics, and squad depth.
A Clean Sweep Over the English Contenders
This season, PSG didn’t just survive tough English opponents; they crushed them. One by one, Manchester City, Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Arsenal all fell to the French side. And PSG didn’t just beat them in meaningless group-stage matches either. They did it when it mattered the most—from the group stage to the semifinals.
Beating Manchester City in the Group Stage
It all started in the group stage, where PSG were drawn into a tough group that included defending English champions Manchester City. That matchup at Parc des Princes turned out to be a show of attacking power, with PSG winning 4-2.
That victory wasn’t just three points on the table, it was a statement. It proved that PSG had firepower and tactical flexibility under Enrique’s leadership. Sure, they later lost 0-2 to Arsenal in the same group, but that win against City was a clear sign that PSG were here to compete at the highest level.
Sending Liverpool Home in the Round of 16
Things got even more intense in the knockout phase. PSG were matched against Liverpool a team with loads of Champions League pedigree and serious ambitions of winning the treble this season.
In the first leg in Paris, PSG grabbed a narrow 1-0 win. The second leg at Anfield saw Liverpool return the favor, setting up a dramatic penalty shootout. PSG held their nerve and came out on top in the shootout, eliminating a major title favorite.
That win didn’t just send PSG to the quarterfinals it crushed Liverpool’s dream of a treble. It also showed PSG were more than just a flashy team with stars; they were mentally strong, battle-hardened, and ready for anything.
Ending Aston Villa’s Fairytale Run
Next came Aston Villa in the quarterfinals. Under Unai Emery, Villa were enjoying a dream run in Europe. But that run came to a crashing halt against PSG.
PSG dominated the first leg in Paris with a 3-1 win. The second leg was more competitive, but even then, PSG edged it 3-2. With a 6-3 aggregate, the French side had outclassed the Premier League underdogs. Their speed, sharp midfield play, and overall cohesion proved too much for Villa to handle.
Arsenal, The Final English Victim
Then came Arsenal in the semifinals a young and talented team led by Mikel Arteta, who had already beaten PSG 2-0 in the group stage. But the PSG that Arsenal faced this time was a different beast.
PSG took the first leg in Paris 2-1, then sealed the deal with a disciplined 1-0 win in London. That 3-1 aggregate not only sent PSG through to the final, it also avenged their earlier loss to the Gunners.
Luis Enrique deserves massive credit here. While PSG were more open and attacking in the group phase, the semifinals saw them play a smarter, more pragmatic style still dangerous, but measured. It showed Enrique’s ability to read the game and adjust accordingly.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Against Premier League opponents this season, PSG played eight matches. The record?
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5 wins
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2 draws
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1 loss
They scored 16 goals and conceded just 9. That kind of balance between offense and defense is exactly what separates champions from contenders. PSG didn’t just win, they controlled matches, adapted well, and proved they could grind out results when needed.
What’s Behind PSG’s Rise?
PSG’s rise to dominance this season isn’t just luck or star power. It’s been a combination of smart management, tactical growth, and strong team chemistry. Here’s what’s made the difference:
1. Luis Enrique’s Tactical Flexibility
Unlike some managers who stick to one rigid system, Enrique has brought a dynamic, flexible approach. Against high-tempo English teams, he’s known when to press, when to sit deep, and when to strike fast. PSG could look like a possession-heavy team one game, then play like a counter-attacking machine the next.
2. Squad Depth and Balance
Unlike previous seasons where PSG leaned heavily on superstar names like Messi, Neymar, or Mbappé, this year’s squad feels more balanced. Players like Marquinhos, Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi, and Gonçalo Ramos have all stepped up, creating a team where every department is solid.
3. Mental Strength
That penalty shootout win at Anfield and away victory at Arsenal? Those weren’t just wins, they were mental triumphs. In previous years, PSG was known for slipping up in big moments. This season, they’ve proven they’ve got the nerve to handle pressure and the grit to fight till the end.
The Final Test: Inter Milan
Now, all eyes are on the big finale. On May 31, 2025, PSG will face Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Germany for the Champions League crown. Inter aren’t pushovers. Simone Inzaghi’s side has been on fire in Serie A and steady in Europe.
Still, PSG have every reason to be confident. After bulldozing through four English teams arguably the toughest league in Europe they’ve shown they have what it takes. This isn’t just a chance to win a trophy. It’s an opportunity to finally fulfill a dream that has eluded them for years.
Let’s not forget: the last time PSG made it to the final was back in 2020 when they lost to Bayern Munich. Since then, the pressure has only grown. With all the investment, hype, and expectations, this could be their moment of redemption.
The Bigger Picture
This season feels like a turning point for PSG. They’re no longer just a club with big names and big budgets. They’re now a genuine footballing force in Europe, tactically sharp, mentally strong, and united on the pitch.
The “Premier League Slayer” nickname? It fits perfectly. PSG have walked through some of the best English football has to offer, and they didn’t just survive. They conquered.
Now there’s only one hurdle left. One more match to decide if this PSG team goes down as legends or just another “so close” story. Whatever happens, the football world will be watching as they take on Inter Milan with everything on the line.
