Michel Platini: Barcelona-Manchester United was the best game of the year

Posted Monday, December 26, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

UEFA president Michel Platini has branded the Champions League final encounter between Barcelona and Manchester United as the best match of an "exceptional" 2011.

The Catalan club triumphed 3-1 over the English champions at Wembley in May, and Platini believes that the encounter was the finest of a great year of football.

"2011 will be remembered as a year that saw many exceptional moments in the world of football. There have been many moments in both large and small competitions," Platini said, according to Sport.es.

"However, if I had to choose one, it would be the Champions League final at Wembley. Not only was it a legendary match, it also reminded us all that we're here to serve the sport and the players, without whom nothing would be possible and that make these dreams come true."

Despite feeling that 2011 has been a vintage year for the sport, Platini added that he felt that 2012 could outshine its predecessor.

"2012 will be essential for football. The European Championships in Poland and Ukraine promise to be unique," the administrator enthused.

"Next year we have a new purpose. We enter a new era in club football due to Financial Fair Play, which is supported and carried out worldwide as in a symbol of unity and responsibility."