On Sunday 14 September, the Parc des Princes was the scene of an emotional ceremony to celebrate the departure of Presnel Kimpembe, a child of the club who became a legend after an exceptional career with Paris Saint-Germain. The celebration took place after the Parisians' victory over Lens on Matchday 4 of Ligue 1 (2-0).
Having joined the club at the age of 10, ‘Presko’ spent 20 years at Paris Saint-Germain, rising through the ranks from the youth teams to the first team. In 11 seasons, he played 241 matches and contributed to the history of the capital club with 26 trophies won: the Champions League in 2025, eight French league titles, seven Coupes de France, five Coupes de la Ligue and five Trophées des Champions. His longevity and titles make him the third most successful player in the club's history.
President Nasser Al-Khelaïfi presented Presnel Kimpembe with an award in tribute to his career and his historic number 3 shirt, in front of his teammates and the entire staff. In an emotional speech, Presko thanked the club, recounting his career and expressing his gratitude: "It's not easy for me today, but I wanted to say to all of you, thank you for the emotions I've experienced at this club, the values instilled in me, and the respect. It's a victory to be here tonight because I've fought hard all these years. My family is here with me today.
I am very proud to have worn this shirt, to have respected its values and colours. I am also very proud to have made you all happy, especially my family and my mother. Thank you to everyone, to the club and to all those who have worked at the club, the coaches, the employees, to my President who has been very special to me during my time here, thank you to the management, to my teammates. Thank you to everyone who works here. I love you all. Thank you."
After the speech, it was time for the Parisian legend to take his lap of honour. The Auteuil stand, the birthplace of many songs sang for him, paid a vibrant tribute to the capital club's favourite son with a huge tifo in reference to the Champions League final victory on 31 May in Munich. Presnel Kimpembe stopped for a long time to greet the supporters, exchange a few words and immortalise the moment alongside the 26 trophies won in the Parisian shirt.
This departure marks the end of an era for Paris Saint-Germain, but Presnel Kimpembe's legacy will forever remain engraved in the history of the capital club. Trained in Paris, captain on 30 occasions and a symbol of loyalty, he will remain in the hearts of supporters as one of the most iconic figures in Parisian history. Thank you, Presko!
