Aston Villa head to France to take on PSG in the first leg of the Champions League quarter final next month - they've received a boost
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Parc des Princes
Parc des Princes(Image: PA)
Ligue De Football Professionnel - the French football governing body - have released a statement confirming that they wish to 'promote the progress of French clubs in European Cups' - and, as a result, they've permitted Paris Saint-Germain to reschedule their game with FC Nantes which was due to fall in between their two meetings with Aston Villa.
PSG welcome Villa for the first leg of the Champions League quarter final tie on Wednesday 9 April and then visit Birmingham themselves the following Tuesday. They were due to welcome Nantes to the French capital across the weekend in between, but instead - in order to allow them recovery and preparation time - that game has been rearranged.
Nantes themselves declared their unhappiness regarding the decision and questioned the integrity of the competition in doing so, but LFP have pointed to the league's index within UEFA and the coefficient system as justification for granted PSG their wish.
They explained in a statement: "With a view to promoting the progress of French clubs in European Cups, and considering that improving France's UEFA index remains an essential objective, the LFP Board of Directors, meeting this Monday, March 17, made an adjustment to Paris Saint-Germain's calendar.
"The LFP Board of Directors has therefore decided to set the FC Nantes – Paris Saint-Germain match, counting for the 29th day of Ligue 1 McDonald's, for Tuesday, April 22, 2025. As FC Nantes is affected by this development, the LFP Board of Directors has also decided to adjust their schedule.
"The Stade Rennais FC – FC Nantes match for the 30th day is scheduled for Friday, April 18, 2025 at a time to be determined with the broadcasters.
"The FC Nantes – Toulouse FC match for the 31st day is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, 2025 at a time to be determined with the broadcasters."
Villa have a punishing fixture schedule by comparison; back in action in the FA Cup next weekend at Preston North End, they then visit Brighton in the Premier League in the week following before they welcome Nottingham Forest prior to the Champions League week. Villa head to Southampton in between their two-legged quarter final tie.
How will Villa fare against PSG over two legs? Tell us HERE