Vitinha, the 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain midfielder, spoke in the mixed zone during PSG’s Media Day. He took the opportunity to discuss the start of the season and the difficulties encountered. He expressed confidence for the future and also explained his goal celebration.
Vitinha: “It’s not an excuse, there are several factors.”
What about the start of the season?
It’s a good start, we’ve had a good season. Of course, we’re second in the league and we don’t like that. We like to be first, as always. But it’s not an excuse, there are several factors that have influenced the start of the season. There’s the back-to-back games from last season, the lack of vacation time, fatigue, and the number of injuries we’ve had. We haven’t had the full squad available at any point.
With all of this, these things influencing the start of the season, our positions in the Champions League as well as in the league, I’d say it’s a good start to the season. But, of course, we don’t like being second and we’re going to do everything we can to get back to first place.
Vitinha: “We’re doing what we have to do.”
How do you judge the team’s level compared to last year?
It’s difficult to say at this point. There are several different aspects. Injuries, in particular. I think we’re in good shape. The players who have played this season have played well. We’re second in the Champions League, in Ligue 1, even though we don’t like being second and we want to be first. There’s a whole context.
How do we have another great season?
First of all, we have to finish 2025 well. Then, we have to do everything we did in 2025, all the work, the training, the effort. Of course, football isn’t just 1 plus 1 equals 2. We do what we have to do, what we know is important to go as far as possible. And then, you also need a bit of luck. There are several aspects. But above all, we’re going to work hard.
Vitinha: “I think that when you’re at your best, even if you know what you’re up against, there’s not much you can do.”
Do your opponents prepare better against you? Which opponent impressed you the most at PSG?
Maybe, but then there are things that change. We’re not the same team we were at the beginning with Luis Enrique. I don’t really believe that, I don’t focus on it. I don’t think it’s a decisive factor. We also know the opposing team, and sometimes we just can’t beat them. I think that when you’re at your best, even if you know what you’re up against, there’s not much you can do.
As for the most impressive opponent… Can I say ourselves? (laughs). There was Bayern, who were very strong. Barcelona were good, Arsenal too. English teams are always difficult to play against. I can’t single one out.
Vitinha: “Nobody does it, so I keep it.”
The headband celebration?
“There’s nothing special about it, there’s no symbol or meaning. It was just the kit managers. They told me once that I had a headband and that I should do it once. And I liked it, so I thought I’d keep it. Nobody does it, so I keep it. For now, I’m going to keep it (the celebration). As long as I score.”
