Writers' Corner: Jonathan Johnson previews today's cup final

In recent years, the Coupe de France final has been a consistent fixture in Paris Saint Germain's end of season diary, what difference do you think that could make to Saturday's clash against Rennes?

Obviously as 12-time winners and four-time consecutive champions, there is an element of expectation that has been created over the years in the Coupe de France. It was the same in the Coupe de la Ligue until this season's unexpected early exit to Guingamp in one of the most bizarre second halves of football I have ever seen. Because of that, I think that Saturday's meeting with Rennes takes on added importance, and the players will be particularly motivated.

What was your personal highlight of the previous four finals?

I think that each one had its own charm. Auxerre in 2015 was the first under the new ownership and came after a five-year wait, while 2016 was against bitter rivals Marseille, and 2018 was a real David versus Goliath final because of Les Herbiers' fairytale run. If I had to pick one, I would say the OM victory is my favourite as the attacking performance was so impressive, and the rivalry created a phenomenal atmosphere on the day.

Relive the best moments from our previous Coupe de France finals:

What does the Coupe de France final mean to French football fans?

It is starting to mean more and more to French fans as I think that everybody is starting to realise that it is one of the best domestic cup competitions in Europe. Each country wants to boast a domestic cup that breathes magic, and while some come close, no competition provides the regular shocks and feel good stories that the Coupe de France throws up annually. That Paris Saint-Germain are the most successful club in this competition's history is an achievement that deserves great credit.

To anyone who hasn't been to a game at the Stade de France, how would you describe it? What can fans expect?

Obviously, it is mainly known for being the French national team's primary stadium, and there are many memories attached to it through that. For example, Zinedine Zidane's double and the 1998 World Cup win against Brazil. Stade de France has hosted a number of excellent domestic cup finals over the years too, though, and Paris Saint-Germain have won many of them. Les Parisiens up against a reputable club like Rennes, with strong support on both sides, should create an atmosphere that you only see when France play big competitive fixtures there.

Rennes have impressed this season in cup competitions, what do you think Thomas Tuchel will see as their biggest threat?

Rennes possess a number of good players, such as Ismaila Sarr, Hatem Ben Arfa, Clement Grenier, Mbaye Niang, Benjamin Bourigeaud and Adrien Hunou. Traditionally, Paris Saint-Germain have struggled against Rennes towards the end of the season, so focus, as well as a big match appetite, will be key.

After a tricky few weeks, PSG now have the chance to celebrate winning two competitions within a week, what have you made of the Rouge et Bleu's 2018/2019 campaign?

There have been ups and downs, and adding the Coupe de France to the Ligue 1 title will make up for the absence of Coupe de la Ligue success, although the agony of Champions League defeat might linger for a bit longer. With 15 points left to play for in Ligue 1, breaking the 100-point barrier is now gone for another campaign, but bettering the 96-point haul from 2015-16 is still realistic, and it should be the aim. If the players can better that, then Tuchel and his squad can motivate themselves by trying to smash the big 100 next term.

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