German international goalkeeper Kevin Trapp has returned to France, sealing a three-year deal with newly-promoted Paris FC from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt.
The move, confirmed on Wednesday, August 20, marks a significant acquisition for Paris FC as they step into Ligue 1 for the first time in 46 years.
Trapp, 35, arrives with a wealth of experience at the highest level. He has been capped nine times by Germany and previously played in France’s top flight with Paris Saint-Germain between 2015 and 2018.
During that spell, he was part of a PSG side that secured the Ligue 1 title in 2016. Despite starting as a regular, his role gradually diminished, eventually prompting his return to Frankfurt.
In Germany, Trapp cemented his reputation as a reliable and commanding goalkeeper. He played a pivotal role in Eintracht Frankfurt’s historic Europa League triumph in 2022, where he was named man of the match in the final against Rangers.
Most recently, he was part of the squad that secured a third-place Bundesliga finish last season—their highest since 1993. For Paris FC, Trapp’s arrival represents not just a transfer but a statement of intent.
The club, now backed by the wealthy Arnault family, is seeking to establish itself as a competitive force in Ligue 1. Their campaign began with a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Angers, highlighting the challenges of competing at the top level.
Paris FC had relied on 22-year-old Obed Nkambadio as their first-choice goalkeeper last season, with the youngster starting in their opening match against Angers.
While Nkambadio showed promise, the signing of Trapp brings much-needed experience and leadership to a squad still adapting to the demands of top-flight football.
“Paris FC is proud to welcome Kevin,” the club said in an official statement. “His experience, professionalism, and winning mentality will play a key role in guiding our young squad this season.”
Trapp himself has expressed enthusiasm about the move, citing the ambition of the project and his eagerness to return to France. “Paris has always been a special place for me,” he said. “I’m excited to help this club grow and achieve its goals in Ligue 1.”
The timing of his arrival is significant, with Paris FC preparing for a daunting test against Olympique de Marseille at the Stade Vélodrome. Both sides lost their opening fixtures, and the clash promises to be an early test of resilience for Paris FC.
Trapp’s addition could provide the stability the club requires as it navigates the pressures of its return to the French top tier.
For the goalkeeper, the move offers a fresh challenge and the chance to end his career by mentoring a young team while competing at the highest level once again.
Paris FC’s journey in Ligue 1 has only just begun, but with a seasoned goalkeeper like Kevin Trapp guarding their posts, the club is better equipped to dream big and face the challenges ahead.
