Ilya Zabarnyi, 22-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender, spoke to Ligue 1+ after the 0-1 victory over Nantes this Sunday at the Stade de la Beaujoire as part of Matchday 1 of the 2025-2026 Ligue 1 season. He reflected on his debut and looked ahead to this season in Paris.
Zabarnyi: “I love playing matches with a team that has possession.”
How did you feel in this first Ligue 1 match?
It’s true that it’s different from the Premier League, and I really enjoyed it. I love playing matches with a team that has possession.
How did you feel?
I felt pretty good. The fans were there, and it was great; they didn’t stop singing. You could feel their support throughout the match. There are some incredible players.
Zabarnyi: “I want to win everything. I’m under pressure, but it makes me grow and progress.”
Did you wait a long time to get here?
Yes, for me, it was a long time, it took time, but today I’m very happy to be with the team. Everyone tries to put me in the best possible conditions every day, so everything’s going well.
How do you feel in this new team?
I want to win everything. I’m under pressure, but it makes me grow and progress. I want to try to help my club as best I can. I’m going to fight for them every day, whether it’s in the Champions League or elsewhere, and I’m very happy to be here.
The next time we see each other, will you speak French?
(Laughs)
