July 15, 2018; Moscow, Russia; France midfielder Corentin Tolisso (12) and defender Presnel Kimpembe (3) celebrate after defeating Croatia in the final of the FIFA World Cup 2018 at Luzhniki Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Groothuis/Witters Sport via USA TODAY Sports

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French World Cup Winning Defender Leaves PSG After 20 Years

A 2018 World Cup-winning defender has ended his long chapter at Paris Saint-Germain, departing after two decades at the club. The French defender was no longer part of Luis Enrique’s plans. With just one year left on his contract, the centre-back made only five appearances last season. Notably, Europe’s major transfer windows are now closed but the 30-year-old’s next challenge comes in Qatar.

The player in question is Presnel Kimpembe, who has chosen to continue his career away from the French capital. PSG confirmed on Sunday that the long-serving defender has officially joined Qatar Sports Club on a permanent deal. The move brings down the curtain on a 20-year journey that began when the Paris-born defender entered the club’s academy in 2005. Over that time, he made 241 appearances, scored three goals, provided two assists and captained his boyhood side on 31 occasions.

Presnel Kimpembe has signed with Qatar Sports Club on a permanent transfer after twenty years with Les Rouge & Bleu.

A child of the Paris region, an academy graduate and a true captain and leader, Presnel Kimpembe will forever remain a major player in the history of Paris… pic.twitter.com/p87uiXbiSA
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) September 7, 2025

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Kimpembe Played Key Role in PSG’s Domestic Dominance

During his spell, Kimpembe played a key role in PSG’s domestic dominance, winning eight Ligue 1 titles, seven French Cups, six French Super Cups, and most notably, the 2025 UEFA Champions League. He also overcame a lengthy Achilles injury layoff, returning to action in February after nearly two years out.

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said in a statement,

“Presnel Kimpembe 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.”

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On the international stage, Kimpembe earned 28 caps for France, helping Les Bleus lift the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Nations League in 2021. His rise from academy graduate to national team regular made him a central figure of PSG’s golden era. His leadership and resilience on the pitch left a lasting mark on the French giants.

Presnel Kimpembe

PSG

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.