In the 2024/25 season, when Paris Saint-Germain's brilliant run in Ligue 1 culminated in their victory over Serie A giants Inter Milan and the Champions League title, many fans harbored dreams of achieving a historic "seventh title." The glory of victory, including the challenging Champions League, fully demonstrated Paris Saint-Germain's strength.
However, even excluding the Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain had already won the Ligue 1 title, the French Cup, and the French Super Cup in January, bringing their total trophy tally in French football to four. This success has propelled them to the pinnacle of success.
However, at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States in July, despite Paris Saint-Germain's strong performance leading up to the final, everything seemed to be going as fans had hoped. Their unparalleled strength in previous matches had impressed teams around them with their determination to make history. However, Chelsea dealt a crushing blow in the final, defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3-0, shattering their hopes of winning seven titles.
Now, Paris Saint-Germain still has two trophies to contend for: the upcoming UEFA Super Cup and the second Intercontinental Cup, scheduled for December.
This article focuses on the UEFA Super Cup clash between Champions League champions Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League winners Tottenham Hotspur in Warsaw, Poland. In the transfer market, many top European teams have strengthened their squads through transfers. In the new season, teams are not only focusing on their domestic leagues, but are clearly setting their sights on the Champions League.
Since becoming the new Champions League champions, Paris Saint-Germain of Ligue 1 has made few major changes, only acquiring last season's Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year, André Chevalier, for €40 million. Donnarumma, once their starting goalkeeper, has been sidelined from the club's future plans due to contract expiration and other issues. They also acquired key defender André Zabarny from Bournemouth for €70 million, marking their second major signing.
For this UEFA Super Cup match, I believe Luis Enrique will likely continue with his 4-3-3 formation. The only uncertainty is whether Chevalier will be the goalkeeper. Although Zabarny traveled with the team, his chances of playing are unlikely.
In contrast, Tottenham Hotspur underwent significant roster changes this summer. Coach Postecoglou was sacked just 16 days after ending a 17-year trophy drought, and new manager Thomas Frank joined from Brentford. Furthermore, after winning a major championship in his career, key player Son Heung-min chose to join Los Angeles FC in the MLS, significantly weakening Tottenham's attacking prowess.
It's worth noting that Tottenham has also been plagued by injuries. Midfield pillar Maddison injured his cruciate ligament, and Kulusevski and others are also unavailable. However, with the arrival of new manager Frank, Tottenham has brought in players like Kudus, Ter, Danso, and Palinha. While their signings may seem less meticulous than those of other traditional giants, they have certainly made a difference.
In this highly anticipated UEFA Super Cup match, while Paris Saint-Germain fans may already see victory as a foregone conclusion, will Tottenham be willing to give it a go?
While Tottenham lacks a superstar, each player possesses considerable skill. Coupled with coach Frank's pragmatic approach, perhaps this renewed Tottenham team can achieve unexpected results through team chemistry and a fighting spirit.