Thilo Kehrer: 'A pleasure to play with such players'

After his summer 2018 arrival, the Paris Saint-Germain defender tells us about his first season in the French capital.

Thilo, in your first season with Paris you picked up the first league title of your career. What does that mean for you?
"It's a great source of satisfaction. We managed to play as a team for most of the season, conceding few goals while also being very clinical up front. So, I think we deserved the title. The fans played a big role in the quest for the title, it was important to celebrate with them."

Even though it was a tricky end to the season, the 2018/19 campaign was very impressive in terms of the stats…
"Yes, we shouldn't forget that! We started the season very well. We wanted to maintain that rhythm to the end, but not everything always happens how you want it to. In spite of that, we always remained united."

Joining Paris has meant playing alongside some of the best players in the world, such as Neymar Jr, Kylian Mbappé and Edinson Cavani
"It's always special to play alongside such players. They're forwards that can make the difference individually at any moment. They have a lot of qualities. It's a pleasure to be with them every day in training. It's a permanent challenge."

And if you had to pick out one game in particular…
"The 5-0 win against Lyon! It wasn't an easy game, especially in the first half. Lyon played very well. We still remember Kylian's four goals and the great atmosphere at the Parc des Princes."

What's your relationship with the coach, Thomas Tuchel?
"I have a very good relationship with the coach. I get the feeling that I'm improving alongside him. I learn a lot tactically. He helps me a lot. He is also good at man-management. He knows how to handle his players according to their state of mind."

What are your objectives for next season?
"I'm very demanding with myself, I want to achieve great things and continue improving. I have analysed my performances, and I want to - and I must - do better while continuing to establish myself in the team."