Maxwell pleased with PSG switch

New Paris Saint-Germain defender Maxwell feels staying at Barcelona would have been the safest option for his career.

The 30-year-old eventually pushed for a move to the Parisians last week after playing second-fiddle to Eric Abidal at left-back for most of his spell in Catalunya.

Speaking to Le Parisien on Thursday, he admitted the lure of playing at the Parc des Princes was too much to resist.

“The easiest thing would have been staying at (Barcelona). Here I expected a challenge,” Maxwell said. “It is a great opportunity, PSG have a very large scope for growth.”

Maxwell praised former rival Abidal, who overcame a much-publicised battle with a liver tumour over the past year to reclaim his place as Barcelona’s chief left-back once more.

“Currently, the best left-back in the world is Abidal,” the Brazilian said.

Maxwell debuted in PSG’s 3-1 victory over Toulouse on Sunday, and they lead the Ligue 1 standings by three points from Montpellier.