Zabarnyi struggles to establish himself in Paris as Ukraine counts on him
Illia Zabarnyi, 24‑year‑old Ukrainian defender, joined Paris Saint-Germain for €63 million from Bournemouth in the summer of 2025, but he is still struggling to establish himself. After a mixed first season, he has played only two matches, i.e., 180 minutes, this season.
Situation at Paris Saint-Germain
This season, Zabarnyi has played only two matches, totalling 180 minutes of game time, all in Ligue 1. He started against Lens in the Trophée des Champions, where he covered Florian Thauvin on the Lens goal, showing good positioning. A few weeks later, he was again involved in the goal conceded by PSG against Slovan Bratislava, despite the 6‑1 victory, which fed doubts about his defensive solidity.
Since that episode, Luis Enrique has left him on the bench five times and did not select him against Brest, thus limiting his opportunities to regain the expected level. The coach, however, defended his player against the criticism, stating:
« I remember the criticism against Barcola, Dembélé, Doué or Luis Enrique. It’s normal. I think that’s just how it is. We must value being one of the best clubs in the world. I am very happy with my squad. »
Zabarnyi must therefore regain rhythm and the confidence that Luis Enrique had highlighted, especially by emphasizing being one of the best clubs in the world. In the national team, he already has 57 caps and occupies a leadership role, a stark contrast with his club situation, where he struggles to establish himself regularly. After Ukraine’s victory over Hungary, he reminded his teammates of their responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of cohesion.
Role in the Ukrainian national team
In the national team, the 24‑year‑old defender continues to be a pillar, with 57 caps to his name, including several as captain. He took part in Ukraine’s victory over Hungary, where he stressed the importance of his leadership role and the need to stay focused.
Ukrainian press does not spare him: Tribuna gave him a rating of 6.5, pointing to dangerous ball losses and positional errors, judging that he has not regained his best level. The outlet Sport also denounced his « flagrant errors », fueling the debate about his future at PSG.
Former defender Oleksandr Kucher, however, defended him, stating:
« Illia has been criticized for a long time. I think he will be able to handle the situation. He remains the leader of the Ukrainian team. He is a good footballer, he is a strong person, and I think he can overcome this difficult period. »He added that Zabarnyi possesses the mental strength needed to get through this tough period. Tonight, against Georgia, Zabarnyi will have the chance to answer the criticism both at PSG and in Ukraine, hoping to regain confidence and consistency.