Safonov opens up on PSG’s gruelling return to training

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·4 August 2026

Safonov opens up on PSG’s gruelling return to training

Matvey Safonov, the 27-year-old Paris Saint-Germain and Russia goalkeeper, spoke on Telegram about his return to training with PSG as he prepares for the 2026-2027 season. The summer break did him good, but according to the Champions League winner, preseason also means having to “suffer.”

Safonov: “A full preseason is essential.”

“Long holidays provide an opportunity to rest and take a break from football. That is essential after a long season, when fatigue sets in. However, two months can also lead to a significant drop in fitness. So it makes sense that after such a break, a full preseason is indispensable. The first week of preparation is already behind us. It was devoted to getting back into shape and technical work. Now we need to readjust to the rhythm of daily training and lay the foundations for the next stage.”

Safonov: “Once I got there, I realized it was only an illusion.”

“This week has been a real emotional roller coaster. Between the fatigue, the intense training, and getting back into the rhythm, I’ve constantly swung between drowsiness and total apathy, and moments of intense energy and freshness. Even on mornings when I felt almost at my best, once I got there, I realized it was only an illusion. I’ve got back into the rhythm. I’ve gone over the basics again, and we’ll get back into shape through the matches. On the 5th, we’ll face Mallorca, and on the 8th, Manchester United. They are interesting friendly matches, perfect for preparing for our first official game on the 12th.”

Paris coach Luis Enrique often stresses the importance of rest for players, so they can stay fresh and happy when coming to training and playing matches. It is a point the players themselves have highlighted several times, as they appreciate their coach’s attention and understanding. After almost two straight seasons, given that the Club World Cup took place during the summer of 2025, the Parisians were finally able to enjoy some holidays this time. At least 3 weeks for those who went all the way at the 2026 World Cup, 4 weeks for other World Cup players, and almost 2 months for the last ones who were not at the World Cup.

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That will do them good, allowing them to recharge physically and mentally. However, there is also a “difficult” return during summer preseason. They have to get themselves ready again for the season, with very intense work. It is important for what comes next, and we know the first few weeks can be difficult. The team will not be at its best right away; it takes time to get back into the rhythm. That is something everyone has in mind, right through to the matches. We know criticism can easily come afterward, with everything being forgotten. Unfortunately.

For now, the Parisians can work in complete peace of mind because competition has not started yet. First, they have two friendly matches to get their legs moving again a little on August 5 and 8 against Mallorca and Manchester United. Then it will be time for competition. They will still need to build momentum, but there will also be wins to go for. The good news is that the other teams have this challenge to overcome as well.

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