Illia Zabarnyi Impresses PSG Teammates in Debut Against Nantes

PSG newcomer Zabarnyi impresses in debut match against Nantes

Paris, August 18, 2025 – **Illia Zabarnyi** made a striking debut for Paris Saint-Germain in their opening Ligue 1 clash against Nantes, earning high praise from his team and coach.

High expectations for the new recruit

**Paris Saint-Germain** secured the services of the Ukrainian center-back, **Illia Zabarnyi**, during the summer transfer window. **The Parisians invested heavily**, with a transfer fee around 63 million euros, to bring him from Bournemouth, a Premier League club. Despite his recent arrival, Zabarnyi did not participate in the Supercup match against Tottenham Hotspur but was included in the starting lineup for the Ligue 1 opener.

Enrique and teammates laud Zabarnyi’s performance

**PSG clinched a narrow victory**, with **Vitinha scoring the only goal** of the match in the 67th minute. Post-match, both coach **Enrique** and teammate **Beraldo** expressed their admiration for Zabarnyi’s influence on the field.

• Beraldo commented: “He’s an incredible player. I believe he will easily integrate with us and contribute significantly. We’re here to support him.”
• Enrique added: “The three new signings will bring a lot to the team. Both Lucas and Illia performed at a high level today. It’s the first game of the season, and we are calm and confident.”

Looking ahead

**PSG’s next Ligue 1 game** is scheduled against **Angers on August 22**, where Zabarnyi is expected to feature again, following his commendable debut and the positive feedback he received.