Sports
Luis Enrique’s Emotional Tribute to Daughter Xana Moves Fans Across Europe
After PSG’s Champions League triumph, a touching moment in memory of Luis Enrique’s late daughter unites rival clubs and stirs hearts worldwide
In a sport often dominated by fierce rivalries and roaring triumphs, there are moments when humanity takes center stage. One such moment came in the wake of Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory, when their head coach, Luis Enrique, delivered a heartfelt tribute that left fans and commentators in tears.
The Spanish manager, speaking to TNT Sports after leading PSG to the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League title, took a moment not to bask in personal glory but to acknowledge someone who’s no longer here—his beloved daughter Xana, who passed away in 2019 after a brave battle with bone cancer.
His emotional words followed a powerful gesture from PSG fans, who unveiled a tifo in honor of Xana during the celebrations. “It was not just a victory for the club,” Enrique said, “but a moment that felt like she was with us again. I’m thankful to the fans for remembering my daughter in such a meaningful way.”
The tribute didn’t stop there. In a rare but deeply appreciated gesture of solidarity, Spanish football powerhouse Real Madrid sent a message of congratulations—not only to PSG, but to their former player and rival manager. The message read:
“Congratulations to @PSG_inside and their fans for a well-deserved Champions League title. A very special congratulations to our dear Luis Enrique, with an emotional and heartfelt remembrance of his daughter Xana.”
Luis Enrique, once a fierce competitor for both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, now stands among the few managers to win the treble with two different clubs—joining the elite ranks alongside Pep Guardiola. And yet, amid the accolades, what has captured the attention of millions is not just his tactical brilliance, but his ability to lead with heart.
Social media flooded with tributes after Sira Martínez, Enrique’s daughter, posted a touching photo of a PSG fan wearing a jersey emblazoned with the name “Xana.” The image quickly went viral, with fans praising not only the team’s victory, but the sense of unity and compassion that followed.
This Champions League title may have sealed Enrique’s place in footballing history—but it’s the memory of Xana, and the global show of love that followed, that reminds us all why sport truly matters.