Well, this is what they wanted.
The 2017-18 UEFA Champions League has reached the knockout stages, with the Round of 16 draw setting up several exciting encounters amongst the world’s elite clubs. There is much to look forward to, but one particular pairing offers up the possibility of perceptions forever changing for one side.
Paris Saint-Germain will face title-holders Real Madrid over two legs for a place in the quarter-finals, and the Ligue 1 outfit will be preparing for an incredible test. A dominant force in their domestic league throughout the decade, ownership have made their strongest push yet to take the next step in their evolution.
Even by PSG’s lofty standards, the talent in manager Unai Emery’s team is truly staggering and there should be a level of confidence for advancement in the tournament.
https://twitter.com/PSG_inside/status/940223150398328832
The world-record signing of Neymar was massive, joining the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Angel Di Maria. The back-line has a distinctive Brazilian flair with Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Dani Alves.
Les Parisiens are as ready as they ever will be to make a run at a Champions League crown, and their recent investments appear to be an extension of the hierarchy’s impatience.
But will this be enough to eliminate Los Blancos from the competition? At this point, that is impossible to say.
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There is quite a bit of time left before these two footballing giants take the pitch in 2018, with form and fitness for the squad’s bound to fluctuate.
Real Madrid have endured difficult results in La Liga thus far, while PSG have had their own down moments as well. Neymar’s presence offers a unique sub-plot, as his time with Barcelona made him very familiar with manager Zinedine Zidane’s approach.
If they are successful, the French powerhouse will send a message loud and clear that they are a Champions League contender every season from now on. A loss (especially a bad one) will reinforce Madrid’s dominance and keep PSG’s current reputation for European stumbles intact.
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Paris Saint-Germain’s mission in 2017-18 is to establish themselves as one of the world’s best clubs. They will have an opportunity to do just that versus Real Madrid.