On Wednesday, during Matchday 6 of the 2025-2026 Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain (2nd) will face Athletic Bilbao (27th) at the San Mamés Stadium (kick-off at 9 pm, CET). On the eve of this match, PSG midfielder Fabian Ruiz (29 years old) answered several questions at a press conference.
Ruiz: “I’m back in shape.”
Are there talks about extending my contract?
Yes, my contract ends in 2027. I’ve always said I’m very happy to be here. This is my fourth season, and I’m very pleased. It’s not something I’m worried about. What’s important is tomorrow’s match and trying to win.
There’s a lot of talk about Neves and Vitinha, but how are you feeling this season?
It’s not just Neves or Vitinha; all the players are indeed in good form. I’m getting back into shape. I had an injury, I struggled a bit, but I’ve recovered. I feel good, and I hope I can continue. We’ll try to be at our best so we can win again.
Ruiz: “The fans are pushing us relentlessly.”
A word about the atmosphere in this stadium?
I played here with Real Betis. We drew 0-0. It’s one of the most beautiful stadiums in Spain, the atmosphere is spectacular. The fans push us on relentlessly. We’re aware of the challenges ahead. It’s a Champions League match, the points are crucial for both teams. We have to go onto the pitch with our usual mindset, to play our game.
Ruiz: “It’s one of the keys to the team.”
Are you in the best midfield of your career?
I’ve been fortunate enough to play with some great players, both here and with the national team. I don’t know if it’s the best midfield in the world, but it’s certainly one of the best. We’re lucky to have players who can change positions. That’s one of the keys to the team. Everyone can adapt. I think that’s very positive. That’s why last season was excellent and why we’re off to a good start.
Ruiz: “They’re aggressive, we’ll need to be focused and strong from the start.”
Have your national teammates (Williams and Laporte) spoken with you about this match?
No, but we know how important the match is for them. We know they’re fighting for qualification. I’ve seen this team play often; it will be a difficult match in a great atmosphere against a good team. They’re aggressive, we’ll need to be focused and strong from the start. We have to play our style, and I think we can win to be at the top of the table.
A word on Bilbao and their style?
We all know their strengths. They’re very strong on the counter-attack, with very strong players in one-on-one situations. They defend very well as a unit. We know it will be difficult.
Ruiz: “Vitinha is as strong off the pitch as he is on it.”
Vitinha has become very important on the pitch; what is his influence off it?
Vitinha is just as strong off the pitch as he is on it. He’s an exceptional, calm man. That’s why he’s one of the captains. He brings us so much. He likes to talk to everyone, always ready to help. It’s important that such a talented player is also a good person off the pitch.
