'Obviously different football' - Zabarnyi impresses PSG coach in first game
Illia Zabarnyi (photo: instagram.com/psg)
Ukrainian defender Illia Zabarnyi has played his first match for French side Paris Saint-Germain after his transfer from English club Bournemouth. The central defender spent the full game on the pitch in the opening round of Ligue 1, where his new team secured a victory, reports RMC Sport.
Ukrainian debuted for PSG
Illia Zabarnyi officially joined the French club on Tuesday, August 12. Despite this, he did not take part in the UEFA Super Cup match against Tottenham, but he appeared in the starting lineup in the very first round of the French championship.
The Ukrainian stayed on the pitch for the entire match. Although there were some mistakes at the beginning of the game, PSG managed to win with a minimal score of 1:0.
In this match, Zabarnyi recorded one clearance and one interception. He also demonstrated high passing accuracy, 62 successful passes out of 65, which amounts to 95%.
Zabarnyi commented on his debut
After the game, Illia shared his impressions of his debut with the Parisians. The defender noted that PSG's style of play is very different from what he was used to at Bournemouth.
“It's obviously different, but I liked it. I love playing in teams that control the ball. I really enjoyed it and felt quite good. The fans were close, and that means a lot. They never stopped singing. We felt their support throughout the match," Zabarnyi said.
He also added that despite the short time spent with the team, he already feels the support of his new teammates.
"I haven't known my new teammates for very long, but they are incredible players. I am very happy to be here with the team because everyone tries to help me every day," the Ukrainian said.
PSG coach's reaction to Zabarnyi's game
PSG head coach Luis Enrique was also pleased with the debut of the Ukrainian defender. He praised his skills highly.
"His technical and physical abilities are perfect for the style of play I like. He feels comfortable with the ball. Without it, he usually wins it back. Zabarnyi had a good match," said the Spanish coach, as quoted by Le Parisien.
Currently, PSG is in third place in the Ligue 1 standings, with three points after the first round. Illia Zabarnyi's team will play their next game on Friday, August 22, against Angers.
