His decision, Luis Enrique, his style… Zabarnyi opens up

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·12 August 2025

His decision, Luis Enrique, his style… Zabarnyi opens up

Ilya Zabarnyi, the 22-year-old Ukrainian defender, has (finally) arrived at Paris Saint-Germain with a contract until 2030. The new Parisian number 6 answered several questions from PSG TV. He naturally spoke about his feelings upon signing in Paris, but also discussed the reasons for his choice, the group he is about to discover, coach Luis Enrique, his own profile, and his mentality. All this, without forgetting the supporters and the Parc des Princes.

Zabarnyi: “I felt that people wanted me to come here and honestly, that really motivated me!”

What is your first feeling? First of all, thank you! It’s simply incredible. I am very proud, it’s truly amazing. For me, Paris Saint-Germain is the best club in the world, the best project. I think it’s the best possible choice. I’m here to give everything I have on the pitch, it’s as simple as that. What motivated your choice? I felt that people wanted me to come here and honestly, that really motivated me! It really made me want to come as soon as possible. And finally, it happened. It’s a new experience, it’s wonderful. I’m still young so I need to discover new things, so I think it’s the right decision.

Zabarnyi: “Honestly, I love this passion, and yes, I will bring it too.”

You’re going to discover new teammates and a new coach… I can’t wait to meet everyone, and of course the coach. I think it’s going to be great. I know what he expects and I’m ready for it. I faced him with Ukraine, when he was the coach of Spain, and we won the match 1-0. I saw him, he is so energetic… I love that! Honestly, I love this passion, and yes, I will bring it too. I also love what the team does tactically. I’ve watched matches and I really enjoyed watching the way they play. I fell in love with Paris Saint-Germain’s style so, for me, it’s really great to be here. Can you tell us about yourself? I’m young, I’m 22, even though I feel older! I’ve already accumulated quite a bit of experience and I think that will help me in the future, even though I will obviously continue to learn. I’m excited.

Zabarnyi: “You always have to work and think about all possible situations on the pitch, be patient, and work hard.”

You seem to show calmness and composure, both on and off the pitch… Does that define you well? Without a doubt. That’s the most important thing for me. You always have to work and think about all possible situations on the pitch, be patient, and work hard. You’re going to discover the Parc des Princes and its supporters… I’m looking forward to making my debut and meeting the supporters. I really can’t wait! Paris Saint-Germain is a big club and I expect it to be tough, but I’m ready. I just can’t wait to discover the team and meet everyone, and start playing.”

There are often debates around PSG, almost about every point in fact. But Zabarnyi’s arrival quickly seemed to be seen as a great idea, even if there are always skeptics. For the player, this can be particularly appreciated. Although the most important thing remains, of course, the determination of the staff and management. The support of the fans is always pleasant. Enough to hope for a warm welcome.

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You can sense that the Ukrainian has the right mindset to join Luis Enrique’s team. Passion, fighting spirit, but also calmness. The Spanish coach never asks his team to change when they’re behind. At least, the idea of play always remains the same. Of course, details can be adjusted. Zabarnyi seems to fully embrace this, as well as the passion exuded by the Spaniard.

With his talent and love of duels, all with a lot of aggression, as well as a certain quality on the ball, he should also fit the sporting criteria. Certainly still young, with areas to improve, he knows how to play with character. And the defender will be in good conditions to continue to grow. The Spanish coach has already helped many players to improve and Marquinhos’ (31 years old) advice will be valuable. This will surely help him gradually take his place.

That’s all we can wish for Zabarnyi. The hope is great and we trust him to give his all to live up to expectations. The supporters will no doubt support him, keeping in mind that an adaptation period may be necessary. Even if sometimes it goes very quickly. That would be ideal, of course.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.