Barca triumph the high-point for Platini

UEFA president Michel Platini said Barcelona’s Champions League final victory at Wembley was the best match of an “exceptional” 2011.

Pep Guardiola’s side triumphed 3-1 over English champions Manchester United in May, and Platini believes 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,” Platini told Sport.es.

“There have been many moments in both large and small competitions.”

“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,” he said.

“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.”