In a dramatic revelation during a special episode of Rothen s’enflamme on RMC, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, the president of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), boldly declared that the club is set to leave the iconic Parc des Princes. He emphasized the urgent need for a new stadium within the next „3-4 years,“ claiming that the future of the club hinges on this move. Al-Khelaïfi’s statements sparked immediate controversy, particularly from sports commentator Daniel Riolo, who vehemently disagreed with the president’s dire assessment.
Al-Khelaïfi’s unwavering stance on relocating the club is clear. He stated, „I love the Parc des Princes; everyone loves it. But today, everyone in Europe has stadiums with capacities of 100,000, 80,000, or 90,000. We need that, or we are dead.“ His comments highlight the intense pressure PSG faces to compete at the highest levels of European football, especially in the Champions League. He warned that without a new stadium, the club risks falling behind its rivals, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Riolo Challenges Al-Khelaïfi’s Claims
However, Riolo countered Al-Khelaïfi’s assertions, stating that the club’s sustainability is not at stake and that the success of a new stadium is far from guaranteed. He criticized the management for their failures, particularly regarding television rights, and questioned the feasibility of filling a larger stadium without a star-studded roster. Riolo warned that alienating the current fan base could jeopardize future attendance, especially if the new venue is located far from Paris without adequate transport links.
Al-Khelaïfi’s comments may also serve as a strategic maneuver to pressure the Paris city council, which has thus far resisted selling the Parc des Princes. Riolo dismissed this tactic as futile, suggesting that political changes in 2026 could open new opportunities for the club. Will PSG’s ambitious stadium plans materialize by then? The clock is ticking for Al-Khelaïfi and his vision for the future of the club.