Montpellier beat PSG to the league title last season to the delight of Marseille, who are fierce rivals of the Parisians.

But Nicollin said his team couldn't challenge to retain their title and said he hoped his south coast rivals would suffer as a result of PSG's spending.

"I hope Paris succeed us as French champions," the Montpellier president declared. "That would really annoy Marseille, and I'd love that. OM have only brought in Patatino…"