PSG Reclaim Ligue 1 Summit Ahead of Pivotal Champions League Night

PARIS, 28 January 2026 – Paris Saint-Germain enters a critical week having regained control of the domestic title race, just as European pressures mount. Luis Enrique’s side returned to the top of Ligue 1 over the weekend and now faces a decisive Champions League league-phase finale against Newcastle United at the Parc des Princes tonight.

Domestic Resurgence After Lens Stumble

PSG’s path back to the Ligue 1 summit was cleared by a combination of their own result and a key rival’s defeat. A late 1-0 victory away at Auxerre on 23 January, coupled with Olympique de Marseille’s 3-1 win over previous leaders Lens the following night, propelled Paris into sole possession of first place. Marseille’s victory, featuring a debut goal for Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri, has tentatively drawn them back into the title conversation, though PSG’s underlying statistical dominance keeps them as heavy favourites. Lens coach Pierre Sage acknowledged he is still “waiting for champions Paris Saint-Germain to turn on the after-burners” as his side’s surprise lead evaporated.

Key Facts: PSG’s Position

European Double-Header: Pressure on Two Fronts

The focus now shifts sharply to Europe. Tonight, PSG hosts Newcastle in a direct showdown for a favourable seeding in the Champions League knockout rounds, with both teams level on 13 points in the expanded 36-team standings. Manager Luis Enrique has stated he would “accept losing” if it meant his team was primed for a deep tournament run, highlighting the long-term strategic view. Meanwhile, the spectre of the club’s former superstar looms large. Kylian Mbappé, now of Real Madrid, is a doubt for his side’s concurrent final league-phase match against Benfica due to muscular concerns, though he has been named in the squad. His brace in a 2-0 win over Villarreal last weekend helped propel Real Madrid to the top of La Liga.

Transfer Market: Securing the Future

Amid the sporting crunch, the club’s recruitment team has been active. PSG have finalised the signing of 18-year-old Spanish forward Pedro ‘Dro’ Fernández from Barcelona for a fee reported to be €8.2m, a deal facilitated by strong personal ties between the clubs. In potential outgoings, Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly preparing a significant financial package to lure Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé away from Paris, amid ongoing contract discussions. Furthermore, midfielder Gabriel Moscardo has attracted loan interest from Serie A’s Genoa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kylian Mbappé playing for Real Madrid tonight?

Yes, despite training separately from the main group due to muscular overloads, Kylian Mbappé has been named in Real Madrid’s squad for their Champions League match against Benfica on 28 January 2026 and is expected to start.

Can Lens still catch PSG for the Ligue 1 title?

While mathematically possible, PSG are considered heavy favourites. Their underlying performance data remains the strongest in France, and they now hold a psychological and points advantage at the top of the table.