A harmless video from a PSG plane caused a real scandal in the Ukrainian football community. In the footage published by the club, Paris defender Ilya Zabarny walks through the salon, greeting his teammates. Spectators noticed a hand with two rings, suggesting that it was Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, and it was with him that Zabarny shook hands.

The video instantly caused a stir on social networks. Ukrainian fans and Dynamo ultras criticized the footballer. A story appeared on Instagram demanding an explanation: “Explain it yourself, because we are sleeping with you.”.

Under the posts, fans argued whether it was acceptable for a Ukrainian player to show friendliness towards a Russian, especially against the backdrop of war. The photo where Zabarny and Safonov are walking together to the plane with suitcases added even more controversy..

Meanwhile, in France the incident was taken calmly. L’Equipe journalist Jose Barroso said: “In Paris, no one pays much attention to the scene of the handshake between Safonov and Zabarny - here it does not cause any excitement. Everyone only says that they talked when the Ukrainian just signed a contract with PSG"

Neither Zabarny nor Safonov have yet commented on the situation. At the same time, Zabarny previously emphasized that he is forced to limit himself only to professional interaction and at the same time fully supports the international isolation of Russian sports.

On August 12, the leader of the Ukrainian national team’s defense, Ilya Zabarny, signed a contract with the French club for a period of five years (until July 2023) and became the first representative of our country in the capital’s team.

On August 21, PSG head coach Luis Enrique spoke publicly for the first time regarding the relationship between Ukrainian national team defender Ilya Zabarny and Russian national team goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.