Marquinhos consoles Gabriel before PSG celebrate, a captain's class on show | OneFootball

PSG's victory also reflected the redemption and grace of their captain, Marquinhos, who chose to console Gabriel before celebrating.

In Budapest on Saturday, the Champions League final finished 1-1, PSG winning 4-3 on penalties after Gabriel missed Arsenal's fifth kick, which sealed their second crown. L'Équipe notes that the image of Marquinhos heading straight to comfort his compatriot quickly travelled worldwide.

A year earlier in Munich, his face had shone with almost childlike joy, a moment of accomplishment and redemption that rewarded loyalty and felt like the end of a curse. This time after the triumph over Arsenal, his expression was not revenge, rather that of a captain who rose to the final and did everything else right.

Across a season that again prompted questions about the shelf life of a centre-back under pressure from time and competition, his exemplary leadership stood out. He continues to define captaincy with elegance, empathy for opponents and words that always serve the team.

Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard described him as a gentleman and among the most experienced players, noting he has known both sides of such a final and understands what his team are feeling.

The game remains cruel as well as beautiful, respect depends on performance. For Marquinhos, 32, the challenge is to maintain that level, even if it means moving away from Ligue 1. The summer will reveal what comes next.

Source: L'Équipe