Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is once again gearing up for a quest that has eluded them for years: winning the UEFA Champions League. Despite their domestic dominance, the Champions League trophy has remained just out of reach, often resulting in heartbreak for the Parisian club and its fans. The 2024/25 season brings renewed hopes and significant changes, including the departure of star forward Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid, which poses a considerable challenge for the team.
Winning the Champions League would not only validate PSG’s extensive investments but also solidify their place among Europe’s elite clubs. The upcoming season will be crucial as PSG aims to overcome past disappointments and finally lift the coveted trophy. With a new managerial approach under Luis Enrique and several key signings, the expectations are high for the Parisian giants.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride
Paris Saint-Germain’s journey in the UEFA Champions League has been filled with high expectations and bigger disappointments. Despite their dominance in domestic competitions, PSG has struggled to translate this success onto the European stage.
The takeover by Qatar Sports Investments in 2011 marked a turning point for PSG. With significant financial backing, they quickly became a powerhouse in French football, winning multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cups. Their European campaign, however, continued to be a source of frustration. Despite heavy investments in star players like Zlatan Ibrahimović, Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé, PSG consistently fell short in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
The closest PSG came to winning the Champions League was in the 2019/2020 season. They reached the final but were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Bayern Munich, with former PSG player Kingsley Coman scoring the decisive goal.
Subsequent seasons saw further disappointments, including a dramatic exit to Manchester City in the 2020/2021 semi-finals and early knockouts in the following years.
Despite these setbacks, PSG continues to be a dominant force in European football, and the upcoming 2024/25 season presents another opportunity for them to break their Champions League curse. The departure of Mbappé is a significant blow, but with new signings and a fresh tactical approach under Luis Enrique, PSG remains focused on achieving their long-awaited European triumph.
Current squad analysis
Paris Saint-Germain heads into the 2024/25 season with significant changes to their squad, reflecting both new signings and key departures.
Goalkeeping and Defense: PSG has strengthened their goalkeeping options with the addition of Matvey Safonov from FK Krasnodar, who brings reliability and experience.
The defensive lineup remains solid with key players such as Marquinhos, Milan Škriniar, and Lucas Hernández forming the backbone. Marquinhos continues to provide leadership and stability, while Škriniar and Hernández add depth and resilience. Left-back Nuno Mendes is crucial for both defense and attack, and right-backs Achraf Hakimi and Nordi Mukiele offer strong options on the flanks.
Midfield: The midfield sees a blend of creativity, control, and defensive prowess. Vitinha, Manuel Ugarte, and Warren Zaïre-Emery are key figures, bringing a mix of youth and experience. Vitinha offers creative spark, Ugarte provides defensive solidity, and Zaïre-Emery adds youthful energy and versatility.
Experienced midfielders like Fabián Ruiz and Renato Sanches further bolster the lineup, providing tactical flexibility and depth.
Attack: The attack will have to compensate for the loss of Mbappé, relying on new and existing talents. The return of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig adds creativity and flair. Simons, along with other attacking options like Ousmane Dembélé and Gonçalo Ramos, will need to step up to ensure PSG remains potent in front of goal.
The integration of these players into a cohesive attacking unit will be crucial for the team’s success.
What are the odds of PSG winning the Champions League?
Current Betting Odds for the Champions League 2024/25
- Man City: 3.25
- Real Madrid: 4.00
- Arsenal: 10.00
- Liverpool: 11.00
- Barcelona: 13.00
- Bayern Munich: 13.00
- PSG: 17.00
- Inter Milan: 17.00
PSG are currently priced by the bookmakers at odds of 17.00, indicating that they are considered strong contenders but not the favorites.
The departure of Kylian Mbappé is a significant blow, but new signings and the tactical approach of Luis Enrique offer hope. The Parisian club’s challenge will be to integrate their new players effectively and maintain consistency throughout the campaign.
While a bet on PSG offers some truly mouth-watering odds, it is definitely a long shot and might be best placed using a No Sweat Bet promo, where if your bet loses you can receive your funds back in the form of bonus bets. That way, if your PSG bet pays out you will win big, and if it doesn’t you get another chance.
Other contenders
Man City (3.25): Manchester City are the favorites to win the Champions League, reflecting their recent success and strong squad depth. Pep Guardiola’s tactical prowess and the quality of players like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne make them the team to beat.
Real Madrid (4.00): Defending Champions Real Madrid, with odds of 4.00, are always strong contenders due to their rich history and experience in the Champions League. Their ability to perform in knockout stages and the presence of stars like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, and now Kylian Mbappe are key factors in their favor.
Arsenal (10.00): Arsenal’s odds of 10.00 reflect their resurgence under Mikel Arteta. Their impressive performances in the Premier League have raised expectations for their Champions League campaign. Key signings and a youthful, energetic squad provide the Gunners with a solid foundation to challenge Europe’s elite.
Liverpool (11.00): With odds of 11.00, Liverpool remains a strong contender. Arne Slot’s side is known for its high-intensity play and European pedigree. The squad’s blend of experience and new talents, coupled with strategic reinforcements, enhances their chances.
Inter Milan (17.00): Inter Milan shares the same odds as PSG, reflecting their potential to compete at the highest level. Their recent domestic success and strong squad depth make them a team to watch. Key players and tactical consistency under Simone Inzaghi will be crucial for their European ambitions.
