Ligue 1: France’s Premier Football League
Ligue 1, officially Ligue 1 Uber Eats for sponsorship reasons, is France’s top-tier professional football league, renowned for its technical flair, youth development, and global influence. Founded in 1932, it features 18 clubs competing in a 34-match season from August to May, battling for the Ligue 1 title, UEFA Champions League qualification, and to avoid relegation to Ligue 2. With its fast-paced style and emphasis on emerging talent, Ligue 1 is a breeding ground for world-class players and a favorite among football fans.
The 2024-25 season highlights a stellar cast of stars and iconic clubs. Key players include Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain), France’s superstar forward; Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain), a rising winger; Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Marseille), the veteran goal-scorer; Jonathan David (Lille), a consistent Canadian striker; and Lamine Yamal (on loan at Paris Saint-Germain), a dynamic young talent. PSG dominates with 12 titles, bolstered by stars like Mbappé and Barcola, while Monaco, Lyon, Marseille, and Lille add competitive depth with their rich histories and passionate fanbases.
Ligue 1’s 2023-24 season saw PSG clinch the title, with 678 goals scored league-wide, showcasing its attacking prowess. The league’s youth academies, like Lyon’s and Monaco’s, consistently produce talents who shine in Europe. With modern stadiums like Parc des Princes and global broadcasts, Ligue 1 blends tradition and innovation, making it a must-watch for football enthusiasts.
Ligue 1, French football, Paris Saint-Germain, Kylian Mbappé, Bradley Barcola, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Jonathan David, Lamine Yamal, Monaco, Lyon, Marseille, Ligue 1 2024-25, European football, football stars.
Emi Martinez has been linked with Manchester United, but could end up helping them to prise Gianluigi Donnarumma away from Paris Saint-Germain.
USMNT star Tim Weah is closing in on a move from Juventus to Marseille, with terms being agreed on a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy.
Mason Greenwood extended his impressive run of form by adding another goal to his growing pre-season tally as Marseille secured a 1-1 draw with Spanish outfit Sevilla at the Stade Vélodrome. The 23-year-old forward found the net with a clever, stooping header after meeting a perfectly delivered cross from the left flank by Ulisses Garcia.
New Chelsea recruit Kendry Paez will spend the season at Strasbourg after arriving in Europe from his native Ecuador, but has been backed to become a superstar in the future.
Gianluigi Donnarumma has reportedly been told by Paris Saint-Germain about their plan to sign Lucas Chevalier from LOSC Lille, leaving the Italian understandably frustrated.
Liverpool have agreed a £15 million ($20m) fee with Lyon for England Under-21 star Tyler Morton as the Reds continue their smart transfer business.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hailed Mason Greenwood as the "star boy" as the former Arsenal striker admitted his excitement at linking up with the English forward at Marseille. The 36-year-old forward, who previously spent the 2023–24 season with the French club, returns after parting ways with Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah earlier this month. He left the Saudi club on a free transfer and has reportedly signed a new deal that keeps him at Marseille until the summer of 2027.
Tottenham have joined Manchester United in monitoring Randal Kolo Muani’s uncertain future, with Juventus talks dragging on.
Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati will not be ready to feature for Monaco by the time the season begins, with the head coach not looking to rush them.
