Key Takeaways:
- Paris Saint-Germain reduced their wage bill as a percentage of turnover from 111% in 2021 to 65% in 2025
- This decrease places the club below UEFA’s new salary-revenue ratio threshold
- PSG’s shift towards academy development and restrained spending has contributed to both financial and on-pitch successes, including last season’s Champions League victory
Strategic Overhaul Spurs Financial Recovery
In recent seasons, Paris Saint-Germain have undertaken a significant transformation in their operational approach. The appointment of Luís Campos marked an end to the “Bling-bling” era, as the club moved away from recruiting high-profile international stars for exorbitant transfer fees and salaries.
This shift has not only altered the composition of incoming talent but also impacted current squad members, who have been compelled to accept a revised wage structure. The new policy has already influenced contract negotiations, as seen in the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma to Manchester City during the summer, following an impasse over extension terms.
Luís Campos was presented with the Best Sporting Director award by Gabriele Gravina — President of the Italian Football Federation and Vice president of the UEFA — at the 16th BEYOND Developments #GLOBESOCCER Awards, held on 28 December 2025 in Dubai, UAE. 🏆
Luis Campos is… pic.twitter.com/G0FR8J0JGM
— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) January 5, 2026
Champions League Glory Amidst Financial Restraint
Despite navigating a challenging financial landscape in French football, exacerbated by declining television rights revenue, PSG’s revised strategy has produced both regulatory and sporting dividends. Last season, the Parisian club secured the UEFA Champions League title, all while making major strides towards economic sustainability.
PSG succeeded in reducing their wage bill relative to turnover from 111% in 2021 to 65% in 2025. This achievement puts the club comfortably within the new salary-to-revenue constraints set by UEFA, providing a measure of security against future regulatory penalties.
| Year | Wage Bill to Turnover |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 111% |
| 2025 | 65% |
Academy-Focused Model and UEFA Settlement
As reported to UEFA, these financial improvements provide PSG with confidence that they can exit the settlement agreed in August 2021, which imposed a strict operational framework and a fine on the club. This progress has arisen not solely from wage reductions, but also from a renewed squad-construction philosophy, centred on integrating academy graduates into the first-team setup rather than relying heavily on external acquisitions.
Luís Campos underscored this philosophy earlier this season, stating: “Going to the supermarket often doesn’t make you a better cook.” The implication is clear – PSG now place greater value on developing talent internally instead of pursuing frequent high-profile signings.
Conclusion
Paris Saint-Germain’s recalibrated approach has balanced financial stewardship with on-field success, laying the foundation for long-term stability while satisfying UEFA’s regulatory demands. The increased emphasis on youth development and prudent spending appears to be shaping a sustainable future for the club.
