Kimpembe recalls Emery announcing first Champions League start

Presnel Kimpembe has shared how Unai Emery informed him of his first Champions League start against FC Barcelona in February 2017. The revelation comes ahead of the release of Kimpembe’s book, *#LaForce, tomber et se relever*, published by Fayard. The interview, set to air on Thursday on RMC’s *Génération After*, highlights key moments from Kimpembe’s career. Kimpembe, a former Paris Saint-Germain defender, described the moment as pivotal in his development. He recalled the surprise and pressure of facing Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suárez in the competition’s knockout stages. The defender emphasized how the announcement from Emery shaped his approach to the match. The 2017 fixture marked Kimpembe’s Champions League debut, a competition he would later help PSG reach the final of in 2020. His performance against Barcelona stood out as a turning point in his career, according to his own account. In the interview, Kimpembe reflects on the challenges of professional football, including setbacks and comebacks. The book, scheduled for release alongside the interview, delves into his personal and professional journey. Kimpembe’s candid recounting of Emery’s announcement adds context to his growth as a player. Emery’s decision to trust Kimpembe with a starting role in Europe’s premier club competition underscored the manager’s confidence in young talent. The match, played in a hostile Camp Nou, tested Kimpembe’s resilience ahead of PSG’s eventual 6-1 aggregate victory. Kimpembe’s recollection of the moment provides insight into the mental and tactical demands of top-level European football. His book aims to inspire others navigating similar challenges in their careers. Looking ahead, Kimpembe’s reflections offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of PSG’s Champions League campaigns during his tenure. The interview and book serve as a testament to his journey from debut to leadership.