As the new Ligue 1 season approaches, many clubs seem distracted by issues beyond the pitch. The overwhelming presence of Paris Saint-Germain, fresh off back-to-back Champions League titles, has shifted the focus for most teams from competition to mere survival.

Kylian Mbappé's departure to Real Madrid has left a void that clubs like Marseille, Monaco, and Lille are struggling to fill. Roberto De Zerbi, previously at Marseille, had ambitious goals but left for Tottenham, while finishing second now seems an aspiration for clubs like Marseille, who are grappling with financial constraints.

Marseille's current situation is precarious, as they avoided a European ban but face severe warnings from Uefa about financial imbalances. They have made no signings this summer, with significant player sales, including Mason Greenwood and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The club's internal conflicts, such as the stripping of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg's captaincy, highlight the turmoil.

Monaco also navigates financial scrutiny, having sold players like Maghnes Akliouche to PSG for £43m. The club's reliance on English Premier League teams' financial muscle has become critical, as Ligue 1 clubs struggle to retain their top talents.

In contrast, PSG, aiming for a sixth consecutive title, remains focused on strengthening its squad. New additions like Ferran Torres and Lucas Digne bolster their already formidable lineup. With competitors either stagnating or regressing, PSG looks set for a smoother path this season.

Other clubs, such as Rennes and Strasbourg, face their own challenges, with managerial changes and player losses leading to instability. As Strasbourg deals with significant player departures, they also grapple with a new managerial regime.

Overall, the landscape of Ligue 1 reflects a stark disparity between PSG and the rest, with many clubs prioritizing survival over competition.