Obviously, everyone would have preferred the Champions League final to take place as planned, in Saint Petersburg.
This would have meant that the Kremlin would not have drawn the wrath of the international community by launching its troops to attack Kiev and Ukraine... The UEFA executive committee decided in any case on Friday to withdraw the organization of the C1 final from the Russian city to entrust it to Saint-Denis.
Still in contention in the competition, with a round of 16 return to be played on March 9 on the Real Madrid pitch, PSG therefore have the opportunity to win a first Cup with big ears in Ile-de-France on May 28. .
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Champions League fixtures and results
When asked whether this is additional motivation or pressure, Mauricio Pochettino decides without hesitation: “
It's excitement, additional motivation.
We had the chance to participate in the Champions League final (in 2019 with Tottenham), one of the most beautiful competitions, if not the most beautiful.
It would be amazing to have this opportunity, but there is still a long way to go and we will have to work a lot and hard before thinking about it.
“Recall that Paris Saint-Germain disposed of Real Madrid (1-0) in the first leg, thanks to an exceptional goal and the 94th minute from Kylian Mbappé.
Which Mbappé grew up only a stone's throw from the Stade de France, him the child of Bondy ... A sign of fate for "KM"?
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“In any case, I know that our supporters will be present by our side, whether the final is played in Paris or anywhere in Europe. »
Mauricio Pochettino
In the meantime, the Parisian coach does not want to be intoxicated and answers in the negative when asked if he realizes what a final in Saint-Denis would mean for PSG, Parisian supporters or France football.
“
No, because it's a complex situation, which no one expected or wanted… The host city for the final has been changed.
For us and our supporters, whether the final is in Paris or elsewhere, the excitement would be the same.
Of course, it would be special if the final was played at the Parc des Princes... In any case, I know that our supporters will be there with us, whether the final is played in Paris or anywhere else in Europe.
" , he assures.
For the moment, Paris must think of Saint-Etienne this Saturday (9 p.m.) and Nice, March 5,