Paris Saint-Germain F.C.

Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, commonly referred to as PSG, is a professional football club based in Paris, France. It was founded on August 12, 1970, following the merger of Paris FC and Stade Saint-Germain. The club has since become one of the most successful in French football history, accumulating numerous domestic titles and making significant progress in European competitions.

On July 9, 1991, the French television channel Canal+ purchased a majority share in Paris Saint-Germain. This investment marked the beginning of a new era for the club, providing increased financial resources that helped PSG to strengthen the squad and achieve greater success on the national stage, including winning the league title and domestic cups.

On May 8, 1996, PSG won its first major European trophy by defeating Rapid Wien 1-0 in the final of the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup. The victory was a significant milestone in the club's history and remains one of its most celebrated achievements, marking PSG's presence on the European stage with a prestigious title and boosting its international reputation.

On May 31, 2011, Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) acquired a controlling 70% share of Paris Saint-Germain. This takeover transformed the club with a substantial influx of finances, allowing PSG to sign high-profile players, enhance its global brand, and compete at the highest level of European football. Under QSI, PSG has consistently dominated French football and made significant progress in UEFA competitions.

In July 2012, Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimović joined Paris Saint-Germain from AC Milan. His signing was a part of the club's new era of ambitious recruitment backed by QSI. During his time at PSG, Ibrahimović became a fan favorite and played a key role in winning multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cups, while also becoming the club's all-time top scorer at the time of his departure.

In April 2015, PSG achieved the unprecedented feat of winning all four domestic trophies available in a single season: Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, and Trophée des Champions. This remarkable success underlined PSG's dominance in French football, demonstrating the strength of their squad and the strategic vision employed by the club's management and owners.

On August 3, 2017, Paris Saint-Germain completed the signing of Brazilian forward Neymar Jr. from FC Barcelona for a world record transfer fee of €222 million. This historic deal made Neymar the most expensive player in football history at the time and was a statement of intent by PSG to compete at the highest level in European competitions and enhance the club's global profile.

On August 23, 2020, Paris Saint-Germain reached the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in the club's history. PSG competed in the final against Bayern Munich in Lisbon, Portugal, but narrowly lost 1-0. Reaching the final was a landmark achievement for the club and a testament to its progress on the European stage, fueled by substantial investments and strategic player signings.

On August 10, 2021, Paris Saint-Germain announced the signing of Argentine star Lionel Messi after his departure from FC Barcelona. The transfer was a momentous occasion in the football world, as Messi was considered one of the greatest players in history. His arrival at PSG was seen as a significant boost to the club's ambitions in Europe and a testament to its lure for top talent.

On April 30, 2023, Paris Saint-Germain secured its 11th Ligue 1 title, further establishing itself as the dominant force in French football. The victory highlighted the club's sustained excellence in domestic competitions, driven by its array of talented players and strategic leadership. The triumph was celebrated by fans and solidified PSG's legacy in French football history.