Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Gianluigi Donnarumma Departure from PSG Imminent; Goalkeeper and Coach Luis Enrique Confirm

Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

In a dramatic turn of the transfer saga, Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has confirmed that Gianluigi Donnarumma has been left out of the squad for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur. The coach cited a desire for ‘a different goalkeeping profile’.

Following this, the Italian goalkeeper has now publicly admitted that his time in Paris is coming to an end. He has confirmed that he is leaving the club just months after lifting the Champions League. Donnarumma, 26, has one year remaining on his current deal.

With no hints at renewal, he has been linked with moves to Chelsea and both Manchester clubs. PSG have already moved for his replacement. They’ve secured French international Lucas Chevalier from Lille on a five-year contract. He should be starting as their first-choice goalkeeper.

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Gianluigi Donnarumma Emotional Farewell Message

Following a statement from PSG head coach Luis Enrique, Donnarumma expressed his disappointment over the decision to exclude him in a heartfelt statement posted on Instagram. In the message which is a goodbye to the club and fans, he wrote:

“Unfortunately, someone has decided that I can no longer be part of the group and contribute to the team’s success. I am disappointed and disheartened… I will always carry with me the memory of all the emotions, the magical nights, and of you, who made me feel at home.” He also thanked his teammates, calling them his ‘second family’.

Also Read: Manchester City in Talks with PSG Over Gianluigi Donnarumma Transfer

He expressed hope of saying a proper goodbye to fans at Parc des Princes. The Italy national team captain played 47 matches last season, including the record-breaking 5-0 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan. He also played all fixtures in PSG’s summer Club World Cup campaign.

Luis Enrique and Marquinhos Weigh In

Speaking at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, PSG coach Enrique praised Donnarumma’s quality and character. However, Enrique also stood by his own choice. He said, “Gigio is one of the best players in his position, without a doubt…”

Also Read: PSG vs Tottenham Hotspur: Everything You Need to Know About the UEFA Super Cup

He added, “We’re looking for a goalkeeping profile that is different to Donnarumma. It’s always difficult to make the decision in these situations.” PSG captain Marquinhos added that Donnarumma “is part of this club’s history and always will be.”

He thanked him “from the bottom of our hearts” for his contributions. Unless a last-minute agreement is reached, Donnarumma is expected to leave Paris before the transfer window closes. PSG’s squad for the Super Cup lists Chevalier, Renato Marin, and Matvei Safonov as the goalkeeping options.

Gianluigi Donnarumma

Luis Enrique

Paris Saint-Germain

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Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.