Why Chelsea-Backed Strasbourg Won’t Be a Threat to PSG Anytime Soon | OneFootball

RC Strasbourg may be enjoying a dream 2024-25 season with a real shot at the UEFA Champions League, but don’t expect them to be challenging Paris Saint-Germain for the Ligue 1 title anytime soon.

The club is owned by BlueCo — the same consortium behind Chelsea, led by Todd Boehly, Clearlake Capital, Mark Walter, and Hansjörg Wyss. But make no mistake: Chelsea are the main focus. Strasbourg, despite the support, are more of a feeder club in the bigger picture.

That has led to tension between Strasbourg supporters and BlueCo, sparking protests. And even though the French club has a talented group of young players, they’re not likely to challenge PSG for the league title anytime soon, according to a former Chelsea and Strasbourg player.

Frank Leboeuf opens up about Strasbourg challenging PSG

Philippe Lecoeur / FEP Agency

Speaking to Get French Football News, Frank Leboeuf shared why he doesn’t think Strasbourg will be a real threat to PSG anytime soon — even with Chelsea’s backing. The 1998 FIFA World Cup winner pointed to the uncertainty around some of Strasbourg’s key players as a major reason.

“I mean, we have to be honest about that. Money talks. Paris Saint-Germain are so much above everybody that they can afford the players that make the difference. We don’t know what’s going to happen to Strasbourg next season because players are going to leave; they’re going to have to rebuild. We already know what’s going to happen to Paris Saint-Germain.”

“If Ousmane Dembélé leaves Paris Saint-Germain because City or Chelsea or Real Madrid want him [laughs], which I doubt. They know they have the money to replace him, which is not the case for Strasbourg or any other club. I would love [for them to challenge for the title]. Strasbourg, like Chelsea, are my former club. I love them and want the best for them. But nobody is challenging Paris Saint-Germain.”