Senny Mayulu: "It was a childhood dream come true"

Senny, today you're signing your first professional contract with your academy club. What does that mean to you?

"It's a great source of pride for me. It's a childhood dream. Ever since I was a little boy, I've been thinking about signing my first professional contract with my favourite club, Paris Saint-Germain. It's a real source of pride for me and my whole family. I've worked hard for this and now to be able to achieve it is a great source of pride. I'm very happy."

You turned 18 last week. Could we call it a great birthday present? 

"I think it's a coincidence. But frankly, it's a great gift. I've been with the club since I was very young, at U13 level. I've spent almost all my life at Paris Saint-Germain. It's here that I've got to know people, team-mates who have become like my brothers. Paris is like a second family. I spend more time here than at home."

Can you tell us about your career since joining the club?

"I joined the club's pre-academy scheme at the age of 13, where I spent two years. After that, I moved on to the academy a year early and then followed the academy curriculum. This season, I was able to join the professional squad and I'm very happy about that."

How did you fit in with the professionals?

"Honestly, it went well. I was surprised at first, though, because I was told I'd be joining the group during the break. Then the coach told me I'd be joining the professional group from now on. Everyone helped me integrate and were really kind to me. It was great."

You are the new face of Paris Saint-Germain, with a very strong Parisian image. Is that something you feel?

"Yes, I feel that the club is putting more and more faith in young players and that's something I'm very happy about. I think it's a very good thing and I'm going to continue to play my football. If I'm meant to get my chance, I'm going to get it and I'm going to try to take it."

The coach had some complimentary things to say about you. How do you feel about this and what kind of relationship do you have with him?

"I'm delighted. He's a great coach. He's great with the youngsters, he's a top person. He talks to us a lot, he helps us fit in, he gives us a lot of advice and I'm very grateful for that. We have a laugh too, he's a great coach. He tells me not to put pressure on myself, to play my football and do what I know how to do."

In 2024, you’ve played your first professional match against Revel in the French Cup before scoring your first goal against Orléans. You’ve also discovered the Parc des Princes as a player. What's your best memory of the season?

"My best memory? I think it was my first start at the Parc des Princes. It was an incredible moment; I wasn't expecting it and to play in front of all the fans who were there... I was very happy. I had stars in my eyes because it was a childhood dream come true. When you're a child, you see the players on the pitch. And now to be able to fulfil that dream is incredible."

How would you sum up your first six months with the professional squad?

"I think the balance is positive. I've had some playing time, the coach is gradually building up my confidence and I've integrated well into the group. My team-mates are very good with the youngsters, and so is the coach, so I'd like to thank them."

Finally, do you have a message for the fans?

"I really thank them from the bottom of my heart for all the strength they give us. All the singing... They encourage us all the time. Even during the tough times, they're always there for us and I want to thank them."