[6] Paris Saint-Germain really took flight with the arrival of fashion designer Daniel Hechter as chairman of the management committee in June 1973.

[9][10] Hechter then shocked the national game ahead of 1973–74; he appointed French legend Just Fontaine as sporting director and signed several prestigious players, including Jean-Pierre Dogliani, Jean Deloffre, Louis Cardiet and Jacky Bade.

[11][12] Robert Vicot's men finished second in Group B, four points behind Red Star, qualifying for the promotion play–offs against Valenciennes.

[15] The Parisians also began their tradition of brilliant Coupe de France runs, reaching the quarterfinals after beating Metz at the Parc in front of 25,000 spectators (2–1; 4–1 on aggregate).

[16][17] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.