On Thursday evening, Paris Saint-Germain officially announced the departure of 28-year-old defender Elisa De Almeida to Arsenal. The French international, who has been with PSG since 2021, spoke about her departure in a video released by the Parisian club.
De Almeida: “Ending on a note like this was just incredible.”
I’m feeling a lot of emotions—partly because of tonight’s qualification (for the Champions League, secured against Frankfurt). My goal was to help the team across these two matches. Everyone knows the love I have for this club, for my teammates, for the staff, and for the people at the club. For me, playing for PSG was something I never could have imagined.
I am very proud to have worn this jersey, very proud to have played at the Parc des Princes in front of such an incredible crowd. And above all, very proud of all the players and staff members I’ve worked alongside. I’ve experienced so many moments here—both the highs and the lows. Ending on a note like this was just incredible.
De Almeida: “I really want to thank them.”
What will you take away from your time at PSG?
I’ll take it all with me. I grew as a player here, but also as a woman. They accepted me for who I am—personality and all. They allowed me to be myself—the staff, the players, and the supporters alike.
A word for them?
The main thing is simply: thank you for everything. They are the ones who drive me—who have always driven me. It’s thanks to them, too, that I never gave up. I really want to thank them.
De Almeida: “Naturally, I’m sad to be leaving this family today.”
A word for your former teammates?
I’m at a loss for words, because “thank you” just isn’t enough. I’m going to miss them terribly. I love them. To me, it’s like a family. I will never forget them. Beyond the staff and my teammates, I think everyone at the club deserves thanks. That is what makes PSG a family. Naturally, I am sad to be leaving that family today.
