Presnel Kimpembe, Paris Saint-Germain’s 29-year-old defender, stopped by the mixed zone after the 0-2 victory over Le Mans (video highlights Le Mans/PSG) this Tuesday at the Stade Marie-Marvingt in the French Cup 2024-2025 Round of 8. Le Titi spoke of his return to competition, almost 2 years after his last match and his Achilles tendon injury. A very special moment.
Kimpembe “It warmed my heart”.
“How did you feel when the Paris fans cheered you on in the warm-up?
A lot of pride, an achievement, a big step forward. It warmed my heart, with all the fans cheering me on. I’d like to thank them.
How long did it take?
Very, very long, very, very long. I’m a patient person, and I know that everything comes down to hard work. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity to come back and help my teammates, even if it’s been a long, long time. Today I’m very happy and proud to have contributed to this victory.
How did you feel when Achraf Hakimi ran up to give you the captain’s armband?
It was beautiful, magnificent. I’m lucky enough to have colleagues who have stayed behind during my convalescence and rehabilitation. It’s been complicated, but I’ve been lucky enough to be well surrounded.
Kimpembe “He’s a new man growing up and maturing.”
Did the ten minutes you spent on the pitch seem short or long?
Super long, but we make the most of it. That’s why we play. It was a pleasure to come back, even if it was only ten minutes – they were the ten longest of my life. I enjoyed them.
What have you learned from your long absence?
A lot of patience and experience. It’s a really complicated ordeal that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. He’s a new man, growing and maturing. I’m really very, very happy.
Kimpembe: “He’s the one who decides, he’s the boss”.
How do you feel physically?
I take what the coach gives me, he’s the one who decides, he’s the boss. I’m here, that’s the most important thing. I’m enjoying it to the full. When the coach gives me the opportunity to help the team, it’s up to me to be there, to play that role, to help the team as much as I can”, comments relayed by L’Equipe.
Kimpembe went through a very difficult, terrible time. His career was cut short for 2 years. This included operations, time spent working alone and away from competition. It took a certain amount of mental strength and a lot of patience to come back.
We don’t know if the Parisian Titi will be able to return to full fitness, it’s difficult after such an absence. But it’s good to be back competing. We mustn’t get too far ahead of ourselves. Now’s the time to savour the moment and keep on working to get more playing time, given the competition and demands at PSG.
We also appreciate that the Parisian defender is not putting any pressure on himself for the future. He’s well aware of the situation, and is enjoying his comeback, with the full support of his team-mates and fans.
