Gianluigi Donnarumma: Why PSG are Pushing Out Italian Goalkeeper to Sign Lucas Chevalier
- Donnarumma has won lots of major trophies, including the European Championship and the Champions League
- PSG have secured the signing of Lucas Chevalier, a goalkeeper believed to possess attributes Donnarumma is missing
- The French giants face Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, reigning Europa League champions in the UEFA Super Cup
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Paris Saint-Germain’s signing of Lucas Chevalier makes clear the reason behind Gianluigi Donnarumma’s departure—an issue that has followed the Italian throughout his career.
The move surprised many, especially given the reported €55 million fee (including add-ons) paid to bring Chevalier from LOSC, despite PSG already having what many considered the best goalkeeper in the world.
Source: Getty Images
The main sticking point was contract negotiations. With his current deal set to expire at the end of the season, Donnarumma, who saved two penalties against Liverpool last season, refused both a pay cut and a proposed restructuring that would have shifted much of his salary to performance-related bonuses.
During Chevalier’s unveiling, PSG also shed light on another issue surrounding the Italy international. According to Transfermarkt, the ex-AC Milan keeper is set to leave the French giants now that the Lille custodian has rrived.
Why are PSG releasing Donnarumma?
Donnarumma’s struggles with ball distribution are believed to be the key reason the Champions League winners are ready to part ways with him.
PSG describe Lucas Chevalier as comfortable on his line, in one-on-one situations, and in the air, with excellent distribution skills, as covered by the club's official website.
Source: Getty Images
Luis Enrique is well known for building attacks from the back — a style that Donnarumma has often found challenging.
“He’s a coach with a very specific philosophy. In his system, the goalkeeper plays a central role. He wants me to be involved in building play, to be an added value. It’s flattering that he sees that in me.” Chevalier told the club’s website
While Donnarumma has improved with the ball at his feet since his early days at Milan and with Italy, it remains a clear weakness in his game. An outstanding shot-stopper, he is still not the ideal choice for a sweeper-keeper role.
How PSG fans reacted to Chevalier's signing
One fan commented:
''Sad to see him leave, but happy for him that he can grow even more. Good luck to you, Lucas! I know you will always respect the club that shaped you. Forever a Lilloise.''
Another wrote:
''Certainly, we would have liked to keep him a bit longer, and it always hurts, but we wish him the best for the future, hoping he stays in Ligue 1 and with the French national team for a long time''
A third Lille supporter commented:
''Leaving for another club in the same league is still a huge disappointment for a player trained at the club.''
Manuel Neuer blames Donnarumma
YEN.com.gh previously reported that Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer held Gianluigi Donnarumma responsible for Jamal Musiala’s injury during the FIFA Club World Cup.
The reigning Bundesliga champions endure a significant loss as their injured attacker faces four to five months on the sidelines.
Source: YEN.com.gh
