'Merci Presko' - Parc des Princes bids farewell to Kimpembe after 20 years with PSG

When Presnel Kimpembe stepped onto the Parc des Princes pitch for one final farewell in September 2025, he carried with him not just 20 years of memories, but also the pride of being one of Paris Saint-Germain’s true homegrown heroes. Few modern players embody the PSG academy spirit quite like him — a Parisian-born defender who rose through the ranks to become a Champions League winner, France international, and leader on and off the pitch.

A Titi who became a pillar

Kimpembe joined PSG at just eight years old in 2005, part of a generation that helped shape the modern identity of the club. In a team often built on superstar arrivals, he stood out as a rare constant: a Titi who made it all the way to the top.

His senior debut came in 2014 under Laurent Blanc, but it was during the 2016–17 season that he truly announced himself. Thrown into the cauldron of a Champions League tie against Barcelona, Kimpembe impressed with his calm authority in a 4-0 win at the Parc. From then on, he established himself as a reliable, left-footed centre-back who combined physicality with leadership.

Across his 241 appearnces for PSG, the French lifted eight Ligue 1 McDonald's, six Coupe de France trophies, six Coupe de la Ligue trophies as well as being involved last season's UEFA Champions League.

Presko's legacy

Nicknamed “Presko” and affectionately referred to as the “Général”, Kimpembe was more than just a defender. He was a leader in the dressing room, a voice of experience for younger academy graduates, and a bridge between PSG’s star-studded squads and its local roots.

Injuries in his final years may have prevented him from maintaining his peak level, but his resilience and loyalty ensured he remained a respected figure. When he bade farewell in 2025 before moving to Qatar SC, tributes flowed not only from fans but also from teammates and coach Luis Enrique, who called him “an incredible player for the club, for the supporters, and his team-mates.”

Paris Saint-Germain’s victory over RC Lens on Sunday was followed by a moment that transcended football. For the first time since his move to Qatar SC earlier this month, Presnel Kimpembe returned to the Parc des Princes, where the homegrown defender was honoured with an emotional farewell after two decades in Rouge et Bleu.

When the final whistle confirmed PSG’s 2-0 win, the Parc’s attention shifted to one of its favourite sons. Kimpembe emerged from the tunnel to find his teammates lined up in a guard of honour, all wearing shirts reading “Merci Presko”. He was presented with a special trophy in the shape of his iconic No.3, while the Auteuil tribune unveiled a striking tifo and banners saluting his 20 years of service.

Messages included: “Merci Presko, the kid of Paris became a legend” and “Your mentality, your humility and your respect, for 22 years of loyalty."

“I am very proud to have made you all happy”

Visibly moved, Kimpembe struggled to hold back tears as he addressed the supporters who had accompanied him since childhood.

“It’s not easy for me today,” he said. “I wanted to thank you for all the emotions you gave me, the values you taught me here. I fought all these years, and I am proud to have worn this jersey, to have respected these colours. Above all, I am proud to have made you all happy — especially my family and especially my mother." 

Accompanied by his three children, the 29-year-old made a lap of honour, saluted on all sides by fans chanting his name.

In his post-match press conference, PSG coach Luis Enrique admitted that the result had been played with Kimpembe in mind. “At the same time, we were able to dedicate this victory to Presnel,” said the Spaniard. “He has been an incredible player for the club, for the supporters, and for his teammates. I wish him the very best because he deserves it.”

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