The tension between Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique and goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has burst into the open after the Italian was shockingly left out of the squad for the UEFA Super Cup clash against Tottenham.
Enrique admitted the decision was entirely his, calling it a difficult but necessary move based on the style of goalkeeper he wants on his team.
The Spanish gaffer was quoted by sports journalist Fabrizio Romano on his official X handle.
He Posted:
“Luis Enrique: “Donnarumma is out of the squad as it’s my own decision. I am 100% responsible”. “I want a different kind of goalkeeper and I made this decision. Gigio is one of the best GKs in the whole world”. Donnarumma will also clarify his position soon.”
The exclusion comes with Donnarumma yet to sign a new contract, with his current deal expiring in 2026, and rumours of an exit swirling.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Enrique’s stance is clear and Donnarumma will “clarify his position soon.” Manchester United and Manchester City are already being floated as potential destinations.
Hours after Enrique’s bombshell, Donnarumma issued an emotional public statement to PSG fans on his official X account, clearly stung by the decision.
The statement reads:
“From the first day I arrived, I gave everything – on and off the pitch – to earn my place and defend the goal of Paris Saint-Germain.
“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 hope to have the opportunity to look the fans at the Parc des Princes in the eyes one more time and say goodbye as it should be done.
“If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know that your support and affection mean the world to me, and I will never forget it.
“To my teammates – my second family – thank you for every battle, every laugh, every moment we shared. You will always be my brothers. Playing for this club and living in this city has been an immense honour. Thank you, Paris.”
The arrival of Lucas Chevalier, along with Enrique’s preference for a different goalkeeper profile, has made this split seem inevitable. For Donnarumma, the end at PSG appears closer than ever and far from the farewell he imagined when he joined from AC Milan just four years ago.
