French defender Presnel Kimpembe has officially left Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to join Qatar Sports Club on a permanent transfer, the Ligue 1 champions announced on Sunday. The move brings an end to Kimpembe’s remarkable 20-year tenure with PSG, where he rose from a youth academy prospect to a cornerstone of the club’s success.
The 30-year-old centre back, who joined PSG’s academy in 2005 at the age of eight, made 241 appearances for the club, scoring three goals and serving as captain 31 times. His contributions were instrumental in securing eight Ligue 1 titles, seven French Cups, six French Super Cups, and the coveted 2025 UEFA Champions League title. Kimpembe’s journey was not without challenges; he battled back from a nearly two-year absence due to an Achilles injury, returning in February 2025 to feature in five competitive matches.
PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi praised Kimpembe’s legacy in a heartfelt statement: “Since the age of eight, Presnel has grown and developed at every level within his beloved club, where he has always been an ambassador and model of professionalism. He is a fantastic example for the young players at our Youth Academy and will always be part of the Paris Saint-Germain family. We wish him every success for the future and his next adventure.”
On the international stage, Kimpembe earned 28 caps for France, playing a key role in their 2018 FIFA World Cup victory and the 2021 UEFA Nations League triumph. His leadership and defensive prowess have left an indelible mark on both club and country.
As Kimpembe embarks on his new chapter with Qatar Sports Club, PSG fans and the football world will remember him as a dedicated champion whose professionalism and passion defined an era. The club and its supporters extend their best wishes for his next adventure in Qatar.