Paris, August 14 (AP) Paris Saint-Germain's reign over Ligue 1 last season was emphatic, with the team suffering only two defeats en route to a victorious Champions League campaign. However, as this new season begins, coach Luis Enrique might face stiffer competition from Marseille and Monaco, both of which have bolstered their squads with impressive summer acquisitions.
Adding to PSG's challenges is a local derby against the newly-promoted Paris FC, creating an exciting prospect of PSG vs. PFC. Ahead of that matchup, the season kicks off with Marseille traveling to Rennes on Friday, while Monaco hosts Le Havre on Saturday, and PSG visits Nantes on Sunday.
Historical Intercity Rivalry
For the first time in 35 years, Ligue 1 features two Parisian teams. Paris FC, now partly owned by Red Bull and primarily by the Arnault family of the luxury powerhouse LVMH, offers PSG fans a new neighborhood rivalry. With a move to the 20,000-seat Stade Jean-Bouin, located across from PSG's Parc des Princes, the proximity adds fuel to the competitive fire. PFC's owner Antoine Arnault, a lifelong PSG fan, maintains his support for PSG despite the rivalry. The first clash at Parc des Princes is scheduled for January 4, with Paris FC hosting the final matchup of the season on May 16.
Marseille's Reinforced Attack
Under coach Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille has made strategic signings, notably retaining key midfielder Adrien Rabiot. The team has strengthened its attacking options by acquiring Brazilian winger Igor Paixão, with a potential deal worth up to 35 million euros, along with veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, returning after a prolific season two years prior. Midfielder Angel Gomes and winger Tim Weah also join the roster. With players like Mason Greenwood, who netted 21 league goals last season, and finisher Amine Gouiri, the squad looks prepared to challenge effectively. Rabiot, vital to Marseille's previous success, decided to stay, believing in the team's future potential.
Monaco's Ambitious Bid
After a strong start last season that faltered, Monaco has addressed its weaknesses by signing seasoned goalkeeper Lukáš Hrádecky from Bayer Leverkusen. Paul Pogba, aiming to revive his career marred by injuries and bans, joins the squad alongside Ansu Fati, on loan from Barcelona. Coupled with forward talents like Mika Biereth and Folarin Balogun, supported by midfielders Eliesse Ben Seghir and Maghnes Akliouche, Monaco expects an influx of goals this season.
Veteran Players Return
Besides Pogba, the league welcomes back Olivier Giroud and Florian Thauvin. Giroud, France's all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, arrives at Lille from Los Angeles FC, continuing his illustrious career adorned with successes at Arsenal, Chelsea, and AC Milan. Meanwhile, Thauvin returns, having excelled previously at Marseille.
PSG's Goalkeeper Dilemma
Gianluigi Donnarumma, key to PSG’s Champions League success, faces an uncertain future following the acquisition of Lucas Chevalier from Lille. After being omitted from the UEFA Super Cup squad that defeated Tottenham, his position at PSG appears tenuous.
New Entrants: Promoted Clubs
Metz and Lorient join PFC in rising to Ligue 1. Lorient's advancement was driven by Eli Junior Kroupi's 22 goals, while Metz's last line of defense will be guarded by Jonathan Fischer, a former substitute teacher.
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