Former Liverpool and Rangers manager Steven Gerrard has likened Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha to Barcelona legend Xavi following PSG's emphatic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday.
The Portuguese international delivered a masterclass performance at the Allianz Arena in Munich as PSG claimed their first-ever Champions League title in dominant fashion.
"The new Xavi, he's the new Xavi," Gerrard declared on TNT Sports when asked about Vitinha's performance. His comments came after fellow pundit Owen Hargreaves observed that the midfielder "had the freedom of the pitch" with opponents unable to contain him throughout the match.
Historic Victory for PSG
Luis Enrique's side put on a clinical display with Desire Doue netting twice, while Achraf Hakimi, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Senny Mayulu each added a goal to complete the rout against the Serie A champions.
The victory marks a historic achievement for PSG, who have finally secured European football's most prestigious trophy after years of substantial investment and previous disappointments in the competition.
Hakimi's goal was particularly notable as it made history for the Moroccan international, though specific details of the record were not elaborated in the source material.
High Praise for Vitinha
Gerrard's comparison of Vitinha to Xavi—widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time—represents significant praise for the Portuguese star. The comparison aligns with PSG manager Luis Enrique's April statement where he described Vitinha as "the best midfield player in the world."
Vitinha's control of the midfield was instrumental in PSG's commanding performance, with his ability to dictate play reminiscent of Xavi's heyday at Barcelona.
The comprehensive victory caps off a successful European campaign for the Parisian club, who have now joined the elite group of Champions League winners after several near misses in previous seasons.