Paris Saint-Germain defender Illia Zabarnyi has become the subject of criticism from some supporters after appearing in a Coca-Cola promotional campaign featuring a song closely associated with rivals Olympique de Marseille. The advertisement uses Van Halen’s “Jump,” which is traditionally played as the entrance music for Marseille players at the Stade Vélodrome, according to reports on social media platform X.
The Ukrainian international posted the advertisement to his Instagram account, quickly drawing reactions from fans of both clubs. While the advertisement is intended to promote the upcoming World Cup, Ukraine failed to qualify for the tournament, finishing second in their qualifying group before losing to Sweden in the play-offs. This detail was also noted by some observers commenting on Zabarnyi’s post.
Zabarnyi joined Paris Saint-Germain in January 2023 from Dynamo Kyiv, signing a contract until June 2028. He has made 22 appearances for the club across all competitions, establishing himself as a rotational option in the PSG backline. The 21-year-old has earned 32 caps for Ukraine since his international debut in 2020, becoming a key figure in the national team’s defense.
The incident, while minor, highlights the intense rivalry between Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille, one of the most fiercely contested derbies in French football. Zabarnyi’s involvement in the Coca-Cola campaign has been viewed by some PSG fans as a misstep, given the song’s strong association with their opponents. The club has not yet commented on the matter, and it is unlikely to have any significant impact on Zabarnyi’s future at the Parc des Princes. However, it serves as a reminder of the sensitivities surrounding the club’s rivalry with Marseille.
