Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has defended his decision to leave Gianluigi Donnarumma out of the squad for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup against Tottenham, saying he wants a goalkeeper with a “different” profile ahead of the new season.
Speaking at a press conference in Udine on Tuesday, Enrique praised the 26-year-old Italy international but confirmed the move was a strategic choice following PSG’s signing of Lucas Chevalier from Lille.
“These are always difficult decisions to make. I can only speak highly of Donnarumma, he is undoubtedly one of the best in his position and an even better person, but we were looking for a different type of goalkeeper. My goal is to improve the team, and the club supports me,” Enrique said.
Donnarumma, who played a pivotal role in PSG’s first-ever Champions League triumph last season, capped by a 5-0 final win over Inter Milan, expressed his disappointment on Instagram.
“From the first day I arrived, I gave everything to defend the goal of Paris Saint-Germain. Unfortunately, someone has decided I can no longer be part of the group. I am disappointed and disheartened,” he wrote, adding that he hopes to say goodbye to fans at the Parc des Princes “as it should be done.”
Since joining from AC Milan in 2021, Donnarumma has made 161 appearances, winning seven major trophies with PSG and helping Italy to victory at Euro 2020. He is reportedly attracting interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.
PSG captain Marquinhos acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, noting that similar exits have befallen other key players in the past.
Luis Enrique’s side begin their Ligue 1 title defence on Sunday with an away match against Nantes.
Written By Rodney Mbua
