‘Without PSG, Ligue 1 can be compared to the Algerian or Tunisian league’ — Ex-Real Madrid star fumes

Former Real Madrid and Inter Milan midfielder Antonio Cassano has sparked fresh controversy after launching a scathing attack on Ligue 1 during a live Twitch session.

The outspoken Italian claimed the French top flight lacks quality and relevance without the oil-rich and dominant Paris Saint-Germain.

Never one to hold back, Cassano dismissed Ligue 1 as an inferior competition, insisting its global standing is entirely dependent on PSG and club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

“Without PSG and Nasser Al-Khelaifi, Ligue 1 can be compared to the Algerian, Tunisian, or even Swedish league,” the former Italy international said, laughing off the overall standard of French football.

Cassano’s comments are the latest in a long-running debate about PSG’s dominance and whether the league has enough depth beyond the Paris giants.

While clubs like Marseille, Monaco, and Lyon have enjoyed moments of success, Cassano’s blunt assessment suggests he believes none truly elevate the competition on a consistent level without PSG’s financial muscle and star power.

Cassano also turned his fire on French football pundits Christophe Dugarry and Jérôme Rothen, who have been critical of Roberto De Zerbi’s work at Marseille. Defending the Italian coach, Cassano questioned their credibility and understanding of modern football.

“When Dugarry talks about Roberto De Zerbi, he has probably never watched his matches,” Cassano said before doubling down with an even harsher verdict: “Christophe Dugarry and Jerome Rothen are pure incompetence. You understand nothing.”

A mercurial talent in his playing days, Cassano featured for elite clubs including Real Madrid, AC Milan, Roma, Inter, and Sampdoria, winning La Liga in the 2006/07 season.

Although once tipped for greatness after winning Serie A Young Footballer of the Year twice, his career was as turbulent as his opinions, something clearly unchanged in retirement.