The Bosnian keeper was decisive for Barça Borges with 22 saves, many from counter attacks and 7 metre throws. He made 50 per cent of his saves and admitted afterwards that he had had an excellent game, which he rounded off with an incredible end to end goal to set off the collective celebrations.

Saric was hailed by the Lanxess Arena, a neutral venue where all the difference was made by the Barça stopper. “I have no words to describe the game he played. He helped us a lot”, said Víctor Tomás. Ugalde added “he was amazing. He has shown he is the best in the world. Not Omeier or Sterbik. Saric is the best, he always rises to the occasion and he did it again”.

Praise from a friend

But it was Iker Romero who went as far as to compare him with Messi: “Messi is on another level, another galaxy. And Saric was at an incredible level, he showed he’s a great keeper, one of the best if not the best. And he is a real gem of a person. I will miss him”.

Manager Xavi Pascual said “Saric es deserves this Champions League more than anybody because he has never won such a big title. This adds to his recognition. Last year he felt responsible for the defeat and so I’m especially happy for his two games in this Final Four”.

Saric’s title will make him an even bigger name on the world stage. The Palau has adored him for some time, not just for his saves but for everything else he contributes. And there is no longer any sign of the thorn that had been in his side since last season.