Here is our ongoing series: 5 great reasons to tune in to the match. We’ll be highlighting the most compelling aspects before every game, mixing serious analysis with a touch of humor. Note that this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive preview. We continue here with the match featuring Paris Saint-Germain (Champions League winners) against Aston Villa (Europa League winners) this Wednesday at the Red Bull Arena in Salzburg for the 2026 UEFA Super Cup (kick-off at 9 PM; CET).
5 – The 2026-2027 season kicks off.
After two friendlies to help shake off the rust, the real action begins. Of course, the entire season won’t be decided tonight; the biggest goals lie ahead over the coming months. But this marks the launch of the 2026-2027 campaign—a new chapter waiting to be written. It’s an exciting moment.
4 – Lucas Digne faces his former club right away.
The 33-year-old French national team left-back arrived at PSG from Aston Villa just this Monday; it’s hard to imagine a quicker reunion. We can expect some great moments before and after the match—the kind of emotions that are always a pleasure to witness.
3 – A reunion with Unai Emery.
PSG is facing one of its former managers; Unai Emery sat in the Parisian dugout from 2016 to 2018. His tenure saw both magnificent matches and major disappointments, but his passion ensured he left a lasting impression on everyone. He has certainly proven since then that he is a top-class coach.
His work at Aston Villa has been remarkable. The 2024-2025 Champions League quarter-final was a tough battle, and the 2025-2026 season—finishing 4th in the Premier League and winning the Europa League—was outstanding. They will be a formidable opponent.
2. The return of a “competitive” team.
After the friendlies—which are all about preparation—this time it is about competitive action. The starting XI and substitutions will be chosen with winning primarily in mind, even though factors like individual fitness and necessary squad management must still be considered. It will nonetheless be a strong side, especially with returning players bolstering the squad, whether as starters or substitutes.
1 – A trophy at stake.
It is a sudden return to action; the time has already come to play for a trophy. The UEFA Super Cup may not be the season’s most important title, but it is certainly not insignificant. It counts towards the trophy cabinet, making it a genuine objective. The goal is to secure the win. We saw PSG’s determination to turn things around against Tottenham last season, after all.
