How PSG's Zabarnyi and Safonov Get Along: L'Équipe Journalist Weighs In on the Ukrainian-Russian Dynamic.

The Relationship Between Illya Zabarnyi and Matvey Safonov

According to Novyny.live: French media have weighed in on the dynamic between PSG center-back Illya Zabarnyi and Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov. According to L'Équipe journalist Loïc Tanzi, while the two players avoid interacting on camera, their on-field communication remains smooth and effective. Zabarnyi and Safonov have already lined up together in key Ligue 1 fixtures, proving they can coordinate well during matches.

Transfers and Their Impact

Safonov joined PSG from Krasnodar in the summer of 2024, while Zabarnyi arrived from Bournemouth ahead of the 2025/26 season. Both transfers were significant moves for the club, as each player brings substantial experience and potential that enables strong on-field chemistry.

"I think when the camera is off, they can talk. Clearly, they aren't friends, but saying hello and having a brief chat is entirely possible."

- Loïc Tanzi, L'Équipe

The rapport between Zabarnyi and Safonov could become a decisive factor in the team's development, as a well-coordinated defense is crucial for success in the league. Shared match time and training sessions are likely to strengthen their communication, which in turn should benefit PSG's overall results. Integrating new players is always a challenge, but in this case, both have already demonstrated their ability to work together on the pitch.