PSG vs Rennes Match Crisis Continues into Second Leg

The crisis surrounding the match between Paris Saint-Germain and Rennes continues, as it has been decided to relocate the game to Roazhon Park next Sunday due to the poor condition of the pitch at Parc des Princes, amid a dispute between the two clubs regarding the venue for the return match.

The French league has confirmed that the match will take place at Rennes' stadium instead of Paris Saint-Germain's ground, after the latter was deemed unfit for play. The club explained that the summer heatwave accelerated the deterioration of the pitch, while expressing gratitude to Rennes and local authorities for their efforts in organizing the match on short notice.

Paris Saint-Germain had notified the league about the unplayable condition of their pitch, before a league representative inspected it on Monday, followed by a competition committee visit on Tuesday. A meeting with both clubs took place on Wednesday, and the regulations state that a backup stadium must be used, or the match can be organized by the visiting team, or the game can be postponed.

Paris Saint-Germain explored hosting the match at the Jean Bouin, Charléty, and Stade de France, but none received approval due to unprepared pitches or the need for additional arrangements. With no alternative stadium found, Rennes agreed to host the match, and while Paris Saint-Germain preferred to postpone it, they did not object.

However, the dispute has moved to the return leg, as Rennes relies on the French League's regulations that state the return match should be held at the originally designated venue, except in exceptional circumstances. Paris Saint-Germain argues that the condition of their pitch constitutes an exceptional circumstance, while Rennes maintains its right to host the return match at home.

According to "Foot Mercato", there was a similar precedent in the 2014/2015 season when Montpellier's stadium was damaged by floods. Lyon agreed to reverse the order of the matches, with the first leg played at the Groupama Stadium, before the return match took place in Montpellier, restoring balance between the two teams.