PSG says Russian and Ukrainian players are united ahead of Champions League final

Ahead of the Champions League final against Arsenal, Paris Saint‑Germain organised a friendly training match that was split into two teams. During the pre‑kick‑off greeting, Matvey Safonov and Illia Zabarnyi did not shake hands, prompting rumors of tension between the Russian and Ukrainian players because their countries are at war.

Club insiders, quoted by PSG spokesperson Djamel, say there is no personal problem. Both Safonov and Zabarnyi are described as great professionals, happy at the club and fully integrated into the locker room. PSG is pleased with their investment and notes that any public gesture could be politicised, so the club protects the players from external pressure.