Context:

The unexpected Champions League final features Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Inter Milan, with both teams surpassing expectations to reach the pinnacle of European club soccer. PSG, lacking their former superstars like Mbappé, has emerged as a stylish and admired team by defeating several English clubs, while Inter Milan, with a strong team spirit and effective coaching, navigated past challenging opponents like Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The final will be held at Munich's Allianz Arena on May 31, marking the fifth time the city hosts this prestigious event. The financial stakes are high, with the winner expected to earn at least 150 million euros, further increasing their earnings in the upcoming Club World Cup. Both clubs have unique histories, with PSG's recent Qatari-backed success contrasting with Inter's financially tumultuous past, now stabilized under U.S. ownership.

Dive Deeper:

• Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan were not favorites at the start of the expanded 36-team Champions League, yet both teams have defied the odds to reach the final, with PSG defeating English clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal and Inter overcoming strong sides such as Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

• PSG's journey to the final has been marked by a strategic shift away from relying on superstars, focusing instead on young talents like João Neves and Désiré Doué, which has led them to be seen as one of the most stylish teams in the competition.

• Inter Milan, a club with a rich history including three European titles, has shown resilience and tactical discipline, conceding just one goal in the league phase and defeating strong teams like Feyenoord and Bayern Munich in the knockout stages.

• The final will be hosted at the Allianz Arena in Munich, a venue with a history of significant European Cup matches, and features a pre-match performance by American rock band Linkin Park.

• The financial rewards for winning the Champions League have increased, with this year's prize fund rising by 25% to over 2 billion euros; the winner will earn at least 150 million euros, with additional opportunities to increase earnings in the Club World Cup.

• PSG's success is a result of significant investment by Qatar Sports Investments since 2011, transforming the club into a dominant force in French soccer, although the coveted Champions League title has eluded them until now.

• Inter Milan's financial situation has stabilized under the ownership of U.S. investment fund Oaktree, following a period of financial instability under previous ownership, allowing them to focus on regaining their status as a top European club.