Luis Enrique’s ruthless call: Presnel Kimpembe recalls the moment he knew his PSG time was up

Former PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe recollected the time during his departure from the club and also the factors that influenced it.

Speaking in an interview with Eurosport via Le10Sport, PSG youth academy graduate Presnel Kimpembe explained the “complicated” situation that led to his transfer while commenting on the €40 million arrival of Willian Pacho from Eintracht Frankfurt.

When asked whether it was heartbreak for him to leave the club, the Frenchman said: “Heartbreak? No. No, because I was nearing the end. I always gave myself the means to succeed and achieve my goals. The situation was more complicated, but that didn’t stop me from working, from trying to get back to my best level at the best time. The whole story is still completely crazy with this Champions League victory to finish. I would have preferred to leave with a victory, having been a real player on the pitch. But the best way to thank everyone was to leave with this trophy in my pocket.”

Pacho’s signing sent a clear message to Kimpembe that Luis Enrique wanted a first-choice defensive pair between Marquinhos and the Ecuadorian. While it was “frustrating” for the 30-year-old defender, he still cherishes his time with PSG, where he worked up the ranks to reach first-team football.

It was a lot of joy and happiness. But deep down, there’s also that little bit of frustration. I would have liked to have been one of the key players on the pitch. Even though I know I was a key player for the team and the club. But without being on the pitch, it’s a different feeling,” added Kimpembe.