With a spring in their step, and cash in their pockets, PSG prove serious contenders

In 2011, when Qatar Sports Investments acquired Paris Saint-Germain, they established a five-year plan to become a major European footballing powerhouse that involved competing at the business end of Europe’s premier club competition.

Over the last three seasons, hopes have been dashed by Barcelona (twice) and Manchester City. If the plan wasn’t a total failure, deadlines were certainly missed.

Now begins the new era. Having failed to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League since their takeover, QSI reacted in the same way as we might expect from a financial powerhouse: They attempted a shortcut. No longer is it enough for PSG to compete; triumph is now the only acceptable end result.