Champions of Europe and freshly crowned Super Cup winners, Paris Saint-Germain face a new challenge this Ligue 1 season: holding onto their throne despite a punishing schedule and limited rest.

Luis Enrique’s side, having played 65 matches last season and with just one week of preparation before the new campaign, are favorites to win their 12th domestic title in 14 years. Still, the manager stressed that their main focus is on “making history” by winning back-to-back Champions League titles.

New signings Lucas Chevalier and Illia Zabarnyi bolster the squad, but the season begins amid wider turmoil in French football. The league is without a broadcast partner after terminating its deal with DAZN, opting to launch its own streaming platform. For many clubs, that means no guaranteed TV income.

Meanwhile, Monaco have secured 32-year-old Paul Pogba on a two-year contract, aiming to revive the midfielder’s career following a period plagued by injuries and a doping suspension. This will be Pogba’s first professional stint in France.

Seven-time champions Lyon narrowly avoided relegation after a financial watchdog ruling, but were forced to slash their wage bill and lose key players. Elsewhere, veteran striker Olivier Giroud, 38, returns to France to join Lille.

The season also sees a capital rivalry reignited, as Paris FC return to Ligue 1 after 34 years, playing just across the road from PSG. Backed by the billionaire Arnault family, they bring ambition though club president Pierre Ferracci admits the gap to PSG remains “huge.”

With big stars, deeper storylines, and financial tension in the background, the 2025/26 Ligue 1 season promises drama on and off the pitch.