Illia Zabarnyi: "This was the best possible choice"
Men's football•
Having joined the club from AFC Bournemouth, Paris Saint-Germain's newest defender tells us how excited he is to represent Les Rouge et Bleu.
Congratulations on becoming a Paris Saint-Germain player, Illia! How are you feeling?
"First of all, thank you! It's just unbelievable, and I'm so proud. For me, Paris Saint-Germain is the best club in the world and the best project for my future. I think this was the best possible choice, and I'm here to give everything on the pitch. It's as simple as that."
What made you choose to come to France?
"I felt as though people wanted me to come here, and honestly, that really motivated me to do so as soon as possible! In the end, that's what happened. This is a new experience for me, and it's amazing. I'm still young, so I need to try new things, which is why I think that this was the right decision."
"For me, Paris Saint-Germain is the world's best club and best project. I think this was the best possible choice."
You'll also be meeting new teammates and a new manager...
"I can't wait to meet everyone and obviously the manager, too. I think it'll be great. I know what he's expecting of me, and I'm ready for it. I came up against him with Ukraine when he was Spain's head coach, and we won 1-0. I've seen how energetic he is, and I love it, honestly! I love his passion, and yes, I'll bring it as well. I also love what the team does tactically. I've seen how the team plays and have enjoyed watching it. I've fallen in love with Paris Saint-Germain's playing style, so for me, it really is great to be here."
Can you tell us a bit about you?
"I'm young – I'm 22 at the moment – but I feel older than my age! I have a lot of experience under my belt, which I think will surely help me in the future, and I can learn more. I'm looking forward to that."
"I can't wait to make my debut and to meet the fans. I'm really looking forward to being at the Parc!"
You seem calm both on and off the pitch. Is that a fair assessment?
"Without a doubt. That's the most important thing for me. You always need to work hard, to think about every possible situation on the pitch and to be patient."
Finally, you'll get to experience the Parc des Princes and its fans...
"I can't wait to make my debut and to meet the fans. I'm really looking forward to being at the Parc! Paris Saint-Germain is a huge club, and I'm expecting it to be difficult, but I'm ready. I'm just looking forward to meeting the team and to starting to play."