Draxler opens up about leaving PSG

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·20 agosto 2025

Draxler opens up about leaving PSG

Julian Draxler, a 31-year-old German attacking midfielder currently playing for Al-Ahli SC (Qatar), spoke to Le Parisien about his painful departure from Paris Saint-Germain. After a 6-year adventure (2017-2023) that included a loan to Benfica in 2023, he was effectively asked to leave while being in the "loft" (sidelined from the first team) during training. A significant moment, but one that doesn't tarnish his good feelings for Paris and his Champions League victory.

Draxler "I regret the way this adventure ended"

"Have you ever doubted yourself in your career? Yes, yes, it's no secret, but I'm still very satisfied today. I have a lot of love for PSG, I had some great years there. It was a team full of stars, and it wasn't always easy for me to find my place in the team. I regret the way this adventure ended after spending six seasons there. It was a magnificent experience. But when I returned from my loan at Benfica in 2023, PSG was clear: they no longer counted on me.

Draxler "I'll never speak ill of PSG, but the loft story was tough."

I wanted to find a project that suited me. I felt the end was near, and if I was able to sign with Qatar, it's thanks to PSG for the reasons we know. I still have good relationships with the club, with President Nasser, and I'm doing well today. (...) I didn't feel necessarily worse than other players on the team who were in the plans. After all, it's also a bit of ego talking. I accepted this decision. I'll never speak ill of PSG, but the loft story was tough.

Draxler "I was very happy to see them celebrate."

The Champions League win? I'm glad they were able to win it. It was a special day, as they won on the day I got married in Paris. I couldn't watch the whole game, but a little bit, with my phone under the table (he laughs). I was very happy to see them celebrate their success in the city, but at the same time, I thought: ah, I would have loved to be there too to win this first Champions League.

Draxler "I'd be happy if one or two fans remember me."

The fans? It was an honor to play for PSG, I'm a bit disappointed in the way this adventure ended, but I'm sure we'll meet again soon at the Parc. I don't want a big farewell, but I'd be happy if one or two fans remember me.

We can understand Draxler's position and appreciate his honesty. Being sidelined is undoubtedly tough to live with. Even when you know the club wants you to leave, being sidelined from training, even with a few other players, is particularly harsh. That's why there are complaints about this practice.

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Although it's not without sense, as a good training session can't have just any number of players. Not to mention the atmosphere during that last one. Sometimes you have to "help" certain players understand it's time to leave. But it's not pleasant.

That didn't stop Draxler from keeping good feelings for PSG and his time in Paris. Not to mention the fans. The German followed the final during his wedding, at least as much as possible. And his joy is probably sincere. As is his hope not to be forgotten, words that are very touching.

A return to the Parc des Princes could be interesting, with probably a good part of the fans to salute this talented player who simply lacked consistency, without always being helped by the collective and changes in position.

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