Antoine Arnault: “There is Room for Two Clubs in Paris” – Paris FC’s Future Vision

A Lifelong PSG Fan

Antoine Arnault’s connection to PSG runs deep. “I have been a PSG supporter since I was 12 years old. I was a season ticket holder for many years, and today I am very kindly invited by Nasser (Al-Khelaïfi), who is a friend,” Arnault said in the interview. “I have enormous admiration and respect for what he has built with his shareholder.”

Despite his new involvement with PFC, Arnault reiterated that his admiration for PSG remains intact. “You will never hear me say anything negative about PSG. It is a club that I admire, it is a club that achieves extraordinary things. And I will always keep it in my heart,” he affirmed.

Rejecting Rivalry

Addressing speculation about competition between the clubs, Arnault was quick to downplay any rivalry. “I think there is room for two clubs in Paris. I think there is room to build two different stories, perhaps complementary ones,” he explained. “What we want is to continue in the popular tradition of the Paris FC club, to continue to do things well.”

Arnault emphasised that his respect for PSG’s achievements under Al-Khelaïfi and its Qatari ownership remains unwavering. “PSG is a great club that I admire, and I will not be so immodest as to compare myself or try to create some kind of artificial rivalry between Paris FC and PSG,” he said.

🗣️ “𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐅𝐂, 𝐜’𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐞́ !“

🎟️➡️ : https://t.co/2VbhwbNrp4

🔵⚪️ #CertifiéParis | #PFCFCA

— Paris FC (@ParisFC) November 20, 2024

Vision for Paris FC

Paris FC, currently leading Ligue 2 after thirteen games, has ambitious plans under Arnault’s leadership. Discussions about potential stadium upgrades, including a move to Jean-Bouin or even sharing the Parc des Princes with PSG, are on the table. Arnault highlighted that development would not come at the expense of PFC’s identity.

“We want to build something unique while respecting the foundations of the club,” he said. Drawing inspiration from PSG’s success, Arnault aims to gradually grow PFC into a competitive Ligue 1 club. “I think PSG’s shareholders and Nasser have achieved something absolutely extraordinary over the last dozen years. Their success is something to learn from.”

Site Opinion

Antoine Arnault’s approach to managing Paris FC reflects both ambition and humility. His decision to avoid conflict with PSG and to focus on building a distinct identity for PFC is a thoughtful strategy that respects the dynamics of football in the capital. By recognising PSG’s remarkable achievements and rejecting rivalry, Arnault has set a cooperative tone that benefits both clubs.

As PFC continues its rise, Arnault’s vision could mark a turning point for football in Paris. By blending the club’s traditional values with modern development strategies inspired by PSG’s success, PFC has the potential to become a strong presence in French football. However, the road ahead will require careful planning, community engagement, and financial prudence to realise these ambitions without alienating its loyal fanbase.