Vitinha, the 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, stopped in the mixed zone after the 5-3 victory against Tottenham this Wednesday at the Parc des Princes in Matchday 5 of the 2025-2026 Champions League. He reflected on his hat trick but focused on the team effort.
Vitinha: “The match shows the character of this team.”
A special evening?
“It was truly an unforgettable evening, especially for me personally. But above all, for the team. The strength we showed once again, just like we did last year. We were behind twice, we had the support of the Parc des Princes crowd; they never stopped believing in us, and you can feel it on the pitch. The match shows the character of this team, its personality. We kept playing, we kept our heads, and we were able to overcome the situation.”
A hat trick, isn’t that amazing?
Yes, I never thought I’d score a hat trick, to be honest (smiles). I think it’s also important to believe the ball can go in. You have to shoot, believe in it. I was lucky too, I’m very happy I did it.
Vitinha: “The team is the most important thing.”
Aware of being one of the great midfielders today, of having taken a step up on a global level?
Yes, yes. My first year with Luis Enrique already helped a lot; I had an excellent season. The second was important, with the Champions League. Now, the challenge is to maintain this level. There’s a lot of competition; it’s not easy. The goal is to maintain this level.
But, I always come back to this, the team is the most important thing. I congratulate everyone, the players who came on and helped a lot, and the players who didn’t play are also important.
The best match of your career? Did your first goal spark a comeback?
Everyone sparked a comeback, I’m happy to score, but everyone sparked a comeback. The other day it was João, today it’s me, and another day it will be another player. The most important thing is that the team stays the same.
I don’t think it was the best match of my career. In midfield, scoring isn’t vital, even if it’s nice to add one. I don’t focus on that. But these goals are unforgettable. I didn’t think I’d score a hat trick (smiles).
