PSG cup snub for Paulo Cesar

Brazilian Paulo Cesar is a close friend of Ronaldinho, and it is rumoured that his omission has political undertones - with departing coach Luis Fernandez piling more pressure on the World Cup star.

PSG face Bordeaux in the Coupe de France, and the capital side are viewing the trophy as a key moment in a disappointing domestic season.

Following a well-publicised bust up with Ronaldinho after substituting him in a league match, Fernandez, whose departure in the summer is heavily linked to his bad relationship with the young Brazilian, would have been widely criticised for dropping one of his star men.

However, by leaving out compatriot Paulo Cesar, Fernandez appears to be in less than conciliatory mood.

Inevitably this strengthens Ronaldinho's link to Manchester United, with the Brazilian believed to be less than happy that the club have sided more with the departing coach than him.

Paulo Cesar has been quoted as saying: "Selling Ronaldinho to Manchester would be a massive mistake," and this might not help his cause.

Meanwhile, chairman Laurent Perpere has been given a major boost by receiving the public backing of Canal+ the key sponsor.

Perpere has faced mounting pressure from the fans, who believe that the Ronaldinho-Fernandez situation could have been handled better.

However, new Canal+ chairman Bertrand Meheut met up with Perpere and confirmed that there would be no change at the top for next season.