PSG excludes Kimpembe from Champions League squad and could transfer defender
Paris Saint-Germain have officially submitted their 25-man squad for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League, but veteran defender Presnel Kimpembe was left out. The decision marks a major shift for the 30-year-old, who has been at the club since the under-11 level and lifted the World Cup with France in 2018.
Youth Over Experience at PSG
PSG opted to prioritize young defenders in their list. Academy graduates Noham Kamara and David Boly (16 years old) were both included, alongside recent signings Illia Zabarnyi, Renato Marin, and goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier. Rising star Martin James (17) also made the cut, signaling the club’s clear focus on the future.
Meanwhile, Kimpembe has not featured this season and appears to be outside coach Luis Enrique’s plans. According to Le Parisien, the center-back is “about” to complete a transfer to a club in Qatar.
Champions League Group Stage Path
PSG begin their title defense against Atalanta on September 17. The group stage will also feature high-profile clashes against Barcelona (October 1), Bayer Leverkusen (October 21), Bayern Munich (November 4), Tottenham (November 26), Athletic Bilbao (December 10), Sporting CP (January 20, 2026), and Newcastle (January 28).
Kimpembe’s Decline at PSG
Last season, the defender managed just five appearances across all competitions—two in Ligue 1, two in the Coupe de France, and one in the Champions League play-offs. Injuries and competition for places have drastically reduced his role in the squad, paving the way for a potential departure.
Full PSG Champions League Squad
Goalkeepers: Chevalier, Safonov, Renato Marin, Martin James
Defenders: Hakimi, Beraldo, Marquinhos, Zabarnyi, Lucas Hernandez, Nuno Mendes, David Boly, Nham Kamara, Pacho
Midfielders: Fabián Ruiz, Vitinha, Kang-in Lee, Mayulu, Zaïre-Emery, João Neves
Forwards: Kvaratskhelia, Gonçalo Ramos, Dembélé, Doué, Barcola, Mbaye
