Donnarumma Out at PSG – Chevalier Takes Over in PSG's System
'Playing for this club and living in this city has been an immense honour. Thank you, Paris.'
PSG coach Luis Enrique described the decision as purely tactical. He called Donnarumma 'one of the best goalkeepers in the world,' but stressed he needs a keeper more comfortable playing with his feet.
'Donnarumma is one of the best players in the world, without a doubt, and even better as a person. However, this is the life of a top-level footballer, and I'm 100% responsible for this difficult decision. If it were easy, anyone would do it. These decisions have to do with the profile of the goalkeeper my team needs.'
Enrique's approach mirrors his philosophy from Barcelona, where the goalkeeper is integrated into the attack and helps control possession. He wants a keeper calm under pressure, capable of precise passing—a style he learned at La Masia and continues to apply in Paris.
PSG have already signed Lucas Chevalier from Lille. Chevalier is known for his confidence with the ball, quick decision-making, and passing ability—qualities that align more closely with Enrique's vision than Donnarumma.
PSG captain Marquinhos praised Donnarumma, saying he 'helped write the club's history' and deserved thanks from everyone.
'It's always difficult. I've been here for 12 or 13 years, I've seen players to whom it happened before—key players, important ones—who were told at the end of the transfer window that they had to leave. It's our life, it's football. All we can do is give the maximum while we're at the club and ask the same of others. I too, one day, will leave and I hope to do it in the best possible conditions. The players come and go, but the club and the supporters remain.'
Achraf Hakimi also paid tribute on social media, posting: 'Uno di noi' ('One of us'), reflecting the respect and bond Donnarumma had in the dressing room.
Fans responded with a mix of sadness and gratitude. Social media was flooded with messages thanking him, sharing images of his greatest saves, and calling him a hero of PSG's Champions League triumph. Others criticised the decision, struggling to imagine the team without 'Gigi' in goal.
Donnarumma leaves on a high. Last season, he played a pivotal role in PSG's first-ever Champions League win, making crucial saves in the knockout rounds and staying calm in the 5-0 final victory over Inter Milan.
Comparing the two keepers, Donnarumma offers elite reflexes and big-match experience, while Chevalier fits better into PSG's possession-based system. The choice is about style, not quality.
Attention now turns to Donnarumma's next move. Manchester City are interested, especially if Ederson leaves. A return to AC Milan is possible, while Premier League clubs such as Manchester United and Chelsea are also monitoring the situation Tags: ChelseaDonnarummaManchester UnitedPSGUEFA champions league
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