PSG Looks to Rebuild After Champions League Exit, Leonardo Quashes Return Rumours
Paris Saint-Germain are aiming to bounce back after a turbulent April that saw their Champions League ambitions cut short. Despite the sting of a quarter-final elimination at the hands of Chelsea, head coach Laurent Blanc has stressed that the club’s domestic achievements should not be overshadowed.
Blanc acknowledged the disappointment of falling short in Europe’s premier competition, but remained focused on PSG’s consistent performance in Ligue 1. “It’s important not to underestimate the significance of another league title,” he said, as the club edges closer to securing the French championship once again.
This potential title would mark the continuation of the dominance PSG established under the guidance of former sporting director Leonardo. The Brazilian played a crucial role in the club’s resurgence, overseeing major transfers and helping lay the groundwork for its current success.
However, recent speculation surrounding Leonardo’s potential return to the club has been firmly dismissed by the man himself. Speaking on RMC’s Luis Attaque programme on Tuesday, Leonardo categorically denied having any current ties to PSG or plans to return to the French capital.
“The reports are not true. I’m not looking for a coach for Paris,” he said. “I left PSG — it was a beautiful story, a very positive experience — but that chapter is closed. I have no influence there, I’m not working behind the scenes.”
Leonardo, who has been based in Italy since his departure, added that his future lies elsewhere in football: “My idea is to return to coaching, but it won’t be at PSG next year.”
He also voiced his support for Blanc, indicating that stability is what the club now needs. “I’m sure Laurent Blanc will continue his work in Paris; you can’t change coaches every year,” he concluded.
With Leonardo’s return now ruled out and domestic success in sight, PSG will turn their attention to restoring their European credibility in the seasons to come — with Blanc at the helm and questions over the club’s long-term strategy still lingering.
