Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have officially completed the signing of Illia Zabarnyi from Premier League side Bournemouth, marking a historic milestone as he becomes the first Ukrainian footballer to play for the French champions.
Announcing the move on Tuesday, PSG expressed excitement over the 22-year-old’s arrival, praising his standout performances during the 2024-2025 season in England. Known for his composure, aerial strength, and tactical awareness, Zabarnyi has quickly risen to prominence as one of Europe’s most promising central defenders.
The transfer is expected to add depth and competition to PSG’s defensive lineup, particularly challenging the long-standing role of Brazilian captain Marquinhos. By securing Zabarnyi, PSG demonstrate their intent to maintain domestic dominance while strengthening their squad for another UEFA Champions League campaign.
For Bournemouth, the deal continues a major defensive reshuffle. The club has now lost three first-choice defenders from last season, with Milos Kerkez joining Liverpool and Dean Huijsen moving to Real Madrid. These high-profile exits will likely push the Cherries to invest in rebuilding their backline before the new season kicks off.
Illia Zabarnyi began his career at Dynamo Kyiv, quickly establishing himself as a regular for both club and country. His move to the Premier League showcased his adaptability, as he successfully transitioned to one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
At PSG, Zabarnyi will aim to integrate seamlessly into Luis Enrique’s tactical system, bringing both defensive solidity and ball distribution skills. Fans are eager to see if he will form a formidable partnership with Marquinhos or stake a claim for a starting role.
