Luis Enrique Takes Full Responsibility for Dropping Donnarumma Ahead of UEFA Super Cup

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who played a key role in Paris Saint-Germain’s historic first Champions League victory, has recently faced uncertainty about his future at the club. Despite his significant contributions, rumors have circulated for days about his potential departure from PSG. This speculation intensified when PSG’s coach Luis Enrique brought in a new goalkeeper, Lucas Chevalier, signaling a shift in the club’s plans. The tension between Donnarumma and the management became even more apparent when the Italian was unexpectedly dropped from the squad for the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match against Tottenham, leaving fans and pundits surprised. Shortly after, Donnarumma expressed his deep disappointment and heartbreak over the situation in a heartfelt message on Instagram.

In his emotional post, Donnarumma wrote, “From the first day I set foot here, I have given my all on and off the field – to keep my goal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) alive. Unfortunately, someone has decided that they no longer want me to be part of this team or its success. For which I am very disappointed and heartbroken.” While he did not specify who made the decision, his words clearly conveyed the pain of feeling sidelined despite his efforts and loyalty.

The timing of this fallout is significant as PSG, fresh off their Champions League win, were set to face Europa League champions Tottenham in the UEFA Super Cup. Dropping a goalkeeper of Donnarumma’s calibre right before such a big game raised eyebrows across the football world. Addressing the controversy, coach Luis Enrique stated, “Donnarumma is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, without a doubt, and a good person. But this is the life of a high-level footballer. I am 100% responsible for this difficult decision. I had to make such a decision to fill the need for a goalkeeper for my team.” His statement suggested that the choice was tactical and part of a bigger vision for the team.

The decision to sign Lucas Chevalier from Lille for an estimated \$64 million further confirmed PSG’s intent to restructure their goalkeeping options. Reports from ESPN indicate that Enrique sees Chevalier as the new first-choice goalkeeper. With PSG unwilling to retain two top goalkeepers, Donnarumma’s future at the club looked increasingly uncertain. Following the news, several elite European clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, and Inter Milan, reportedly reached out to Donnarumma’s agent, Enzo Raiola, indicating strong interest in securing the Italian’s services.

In his farewell message, Donnarumma expressed hope to play once more at the Parc des Princes and to properly say goodbye to the PSG fans who have supported him throughout his journey. “I hope I will have the opportunity to take to the field to say goodbye to the fans at Parc des Princes one more time. If that is not possible, I want to let you know how much your support means to me and that I will never forget it. All your emotions, which have given me so many magical nights and made this place feel like home to me. My teammates – the second family, with whom I have shared fights, laughter and many moments together – will always be brothers.” These words reflect the deep connection he feels with the club and its supporters despite the difficult circumstances.

Reports also reveal that contract negotiations between Donnarumma and PSG failed to reach a mutual agreement. Though the goalkeeper had one year left on his current deal, he was seeking a salary increase beyond his already substantial monthly wage of 850,000 euros. PSG’s management was unwilling to meet these demands, especially as Luis Enrique desired a goalkeeper who excelled not only in shot-stopping but also in ball distribution with his feet — a quality they believe Chevalier possesses. This tactical requirement likely played a crucial role in the club’s decision to part ways with Donnarumma.

In summary, Gianluigi Donnarumma’s time at PSG has come to a turbulent crossroads. Despite being a Champions League hero and a beloved figure among fans, contractual disagreements, tactical shifts, and the arrival of a new goalkeeper have led to his exclusion from the squad and possible exit. As his future unfolds, several top clubs remain interested in acquiring one of the world’s best goalkeepers, while PSG moves forward with a new vision under Luis Enrique’s leadership.