The 1996-97 campaign delivered a strong second-place finish for Paris Saint-Germain in Division 1 under manager Ricardo. Leading the charge was the prolific striker Patrice Loko, whose 16 goals proved decisive in securing Champions League qualification. The season was defined by a valiant defense of their European title, culminating in a second consecutive UEFA Cup Winners' Cup Final appearance (losing narrowly to Barcelona) and a UEFA Super Cup Runners-up finish. It was a golden era for the club, featuring icons like captain Raí and Leonardo, that cemented their status as a major European force despite the narrow cup final defeats.