A true product of the club, Presnel Kimpembe navigated every challenge throughout the QSI era with Paris Saint-Germain. His tenure culminated in a memorable Champions League victory, a high note to end on. The Parisian youth academy graduate now reveals that the acquisition of Willian Pacho quickly made him realize his time at the club was drawing to a close.
In 2024, PSG committed €40 million to secure Willian Pacho from Eintracht Frankfurt. The intention was clear: the Ecuadorian international arrived in Paris to form the central defensive partnership with Marquinhos. This significant signing inevitably had an impact on Presnel Kimpembe, who also operates as a left-sided central defender. The former Titi, now playing in Qatar, recounted the moment Luis Enrique informed him of the club’s plan to recruit a player for his position.
Pacho’s arrival influenced Kimpembe’s exit
“Heartbreak, no,” he explained. “No, because I was already nearing the end of my journey. I always gave my all to succeed and achieve my objectives. The situation became more complex, but that didn’t stop me from working hard, trying to return to my best level at the right moment. The story concluded in an incredible way with that Champions League victory. I would have preferred to leave as a true active player on the pitch. But the best way to thank everyone was to depart with that trophy in hand.”
“The situation became more complex”
The defender, who developed through the PSG academy, also shared the subtle sense of frustration he experienced, even amidst the triumph in the Champions League. “There was immense joy and happiness. But internally, there was also a small element of frustration. I would have loved to be one of the main actors on the field. Even though I know I was a significant presence within the team and the club, being off the pitch gives it a unique flavor,” Presnel Kimpembe added.
