Paris Saint-Germain won 0-1 against Arsenal (video summary Arsenal/PSG) at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday in the first leg of the Champions League 2024-2025 semi-final (second leg on May 7). Following the win, former Parisian midfielder Javier Pastore spoke to RMC Sport.
Pastore “People gave me a lot of love on that night. I honestly didn’t expect it”.
“They were very beautiful emotions. People gave me a lot of love that night. I honestly didn’t expect it. Everyone told me: ‘The fans love you very much’. At the Parc des Princes, you could say it’s normal because I played there, but to come to London and be with them was exceptional.
I feel a bit like a supporter. My time at the club was fantastic. I’ve grown as a person. I know everyone, and I have a very good relationship with the people who work at the club. I like PSG to be doing well, and for the people who work there to be happy.
Pastore “It was a super complicated match”.
It was a very complicated match. The stadium went crazy, Arsenal played really well but Paris stayed strong right to the end. We could have scored another goal, but already with a one-goal lead, it’s great for the return leg next week. Paris played a complete game. Donnarumma was exceptional again, and with a goalkeeper like that, we’re just one step away from the final.
They’re a very strong team who play very compactly. Everyone plays the ball well, and I really like that. I’ve always liked to be surrounded by people who play well on the ball, because they’re thinking about the actions you’re thinking about too, so it’s easier. They’re an exceptional team, and I really enjoy watching them play.”
Javier Pastore’s presence in the Parc de Princes during the Champions League semi-final against Arsenal left a lasting impression, symbolizing the importance of former players who remain deeply attached to PSG. Pastore, the darling of the Parc des Princes between 2011 and 2018, didn’t hesitate to ask to experience this unique moment at the heart of the fans himself, sharing their fervor and receiving an immense wave of love in return.
In a period as intense as a Champions League semi-final, this loyalty and shared fervor are precious. They reinforce the club’s unity and the popular enthusiasm around the current team, creating a unique and galvanizing atmosphere.
The attachment of figures like Pastore, who now vibrate as fans, helps to pass on the history and soul of PSG, while reminding the players of the importance of what they represent for so many generations. At a time when Paris is dreaming of another European final, this collective passion is a major asset in taking the Rouge et Bleu to the top.
