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PSG’s defensive monster: Willian Pacho is the wall nobody saw coming and now he is a Ligue 1 champion
In what is now Paris Saint-Germain’s 13th league title in club history, we can’t leave out one of the most important architects of their success—South America’s best signing of the season, Willian Pacho. The Ecuadorian has more than earned his place as Marquinhos’ ideal partner and has proven to be an absolute wall at the back.
For Luis Enrique, the Ecuador international has become one of his most essential players. While it’s hard to say PSG couldn’t have won the Ligue 1 title without him, it’s fair to argue it would have been a much tougher path.
From the day of his debut against Le Havre in August 2024, it was clear Pacho was a special player— a leader with all the qualities needed to play for one of Europe’s elite clubs. It's safe to say he’s been PSG’s best signing this season.
Willian Pacho: PSG’s Ironman
Before the match against Angers, the center-back had played 3,321 minutes across all competitions—the most of any player on the team, surpassing Achraf Hakimi’s 3,204 minutes. In third place is Bradley Barcola with 2,986 minutes.
This stat speaks volumes about his importance in the system.
PSG invested around $44 million to bring him in from Eintracht Frankfurt, and he has delivered on every expectation. The good news for the French giants: he’s signed for five seasons. So there’s plenty more Pacho to come.
With the Angers match, Pacho has now made 45 appearances this season. The UEFA Champions League is the only tournament where he hasn’t rested, having played all 12 matches—eight in the new league phase, two in the playoff round, and two in the Round of 16.
Pacho’s Second Title with PSG
In his debut season with PSG, the defender—who began his career at Independiente del Valle—has already notched two assists and can now boast both the French Super Cup and Ligue 1 titles. Next up is a crucial phase in the Coupe de France.
And we can’t forget the Champions League quarterfinals, where PSG are among the favorites. They’ll face Aston Villa next—marking the fourth Premier League side PSG have taken on in this season’s European campaign.
