French-Congolese defender Presnel Kimpembe joins Qatar Sports Club on permanent deal

French-Congolese defender Presnel Kimpembe has completed a permanent move to Qatar Sports Club from Paris Saint-Germain, the Ligue 1 champions announced on Sunday, ending a two-decade association with his boyhood club.

Born in France to Congolese parents, the 30-year-old has long embodied dual heritage while excelling at the highest level of European football.

He joined PSG’s academy in 2005 and steadily climbed the ranks to establish himself as one of the club’s most reliable defenders.

Kimpembe leaves Paris with an impressive record of 241 appearances, three goals, and 31 outings as captain.

During his time at the Parc des Princes, he played a key role in PSG’s dominance of French football, lifting eight Ligue 1 titles, seven French Cups, six French Super Cups, and crowning his career with the 2025 UEFA Champions League triumph.

His journey was not without setbacks. After suffering a serious Achilles injury, Kimpembe spent nearly two years on the sidelines before making a determined return in February, managing five appearances across competitions this year.

“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,” PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi said in tribute.

“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, forming part of the squad that won the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the UEFA Nations League in 2021.

Now, as he embarks on his new chapter in Qatar, the French-Congolese defender takes with him a legacy of resilience, leadership, and silverware.