Ilya Zabarnyi, a 22-year-old defender from Ukraine, has (finally) arrived at Paris Saint-Germain with a contract until 2030. The new Parisian number 6 answered several questions from PSG TV. He naturally spoke about his feelings when signing for Paris, but also discussed the reasons behind his decision, the team he is joining, coach Luis Enrique, his own profile, and his mentality. All this without forgetting the fans and the Parc des Princes.
Zabarnyi: “I felt that people wanted me to come here and, honestly, that really motivated me!”
What is your first impression?
First of all, thank you! It’s simply incredible. I’m very proud, it’s truly incredible. For me, Paris Saint-Germain is the best club in the world, the best project. I think it’s the best possible choice. I’m here to give everything I have on the field, it’s as simple as that.
What motivated your choice?
I felt that people wanted me to come here and, honestly, that really motivated me! It really made me want to come as soon as possible. And finally, it happened. It’s a new experience, it’s great. I’m still young, so I need to discover new things, so I think it’s the right decision.
Zabarnyi: “Honestly, I love this passion, and yes, I’ll bring it too.”
So you’re going to meet new teammates and a new coach…
I can’t wait to meet everyone, and of course the coach. I think it’s going to be great. I know what he expects and I’m ready for it. I played against him with Ukraine when he was Spain’s coach, and we won the game 1-0. I saw him, he’s so energetic… I love that!
Honestly, I love that passion, and yes, I’ll bring it too. I also love what the team does tactically. I’ve seen matches and really enjoyed watching the way they play. I fell in love with Paris Saint-Germain’s style, so for me, it’s really great to be here.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m young, I’m 22, even though I feel older! I’ve already gained a lot of experience and I think that will help me in the future, even though I’ll obviously continue to learn. I’m excited.
Zabarnyi “You always have to work hard and think about all the possible situations on the field, be patient, and work hard. “
You seem calm and composed, both on and off the field… Does that describe you well?
Without a doubt. That’s the most important thing for me. You always have to work hard and think about every possible situation on the field, be patient, and work hard.
You’re about to discover the Parc des Princes and its fans…
I’m looking forward to making my debut and meeting the fans. I can’t wait! Paris Saint-Germain is a big club and I expect it to be difficult, but I’m ready. I’m just looking forward to getting to know the team, meeting everyone, and starting to play.
There is often debate surrounding PSG, almost on every point. But Zabarnyi’s arrival quickly seemed like a good idea, even if there are still skeptics. For the player, this can be particularly appreciated. Although the most important thing remains, of course, the determination of the staff and management. The support of the fans remains encouraging. Enough to hope for a warm welcome.
It feels like the Ukrainian has the right mindset to fit into Luis Enrique’s team. Passion, fighting spirit, but also calmness. The Spanish coach doesn’t ask his team to change when they’re behind. At least, the game plan is always the same. Details can of course be modified. Zabarnyi seems to fully embrace this, as well as the passion exuded by the Spaniard.
With his talent and love of one-on-one situations, combined with his aggressive style and skill with the ball, he should also meet the sporting criteria. Although still young and with room for improvement, he knows how to play with character. And the defender will be in a good position to continue to grow. The Spanish coach has already helped many players improve, and the advice of Marquinhos (31) will be valuable. This will undoubtedly help him gradually establish himself.
That’s all we can wish for Zabarnyi. There are high hopes for him, and we trust him to give his all to live up to them. The fans will undoubtedly support him, bearing in mind that a period of adjustment may be necessary. Even if things sometimes move very quickly. That would be ideal, of course.
