Didier Deschamps says Lucas Chevalier’s ‘situation’ at PSG ‘not the best’

This was always going to be a big year for Lucas Chevalier. The goalkeeper departed his formative club, Lille OSC, to join Paris Saint-Germain over the summer. The Frenchman was the replacement for Gianluigi Donnarumma, who played an instrumental role in PSG’s UEFA Champions League success before departing for Manchester City. 

Those were big gloves to fill, and Chevalier has struggled with the pressure. He has failed to convince since making the move and he has recently been removed from the side. He has not featured in Les Parisiens’ last three games in Ligue 1, whilst Matvey Safonov was also preferred in the final UCL ‘League Phase’ game against Newcastle United.

He has therefore been demoted to a back-up role, for now. Naturally, that has ramifications of making France’s World Cup squad. Chevalier had only just broken into the national team set-up before the setback.

Deschamps on Butez and Risser: ‘They are good goalkeepers. We are following them.’

Speaking at the UEFA Nations League draw in Brussels, Didier Deschamps addressed the situation. “Lucas’ situation isn’t the best, neither for him nor for us, but it is Luis Enrique who decides. If that evolves in a good way, then that is good for him and for us,” said the France manager. 

Amid Chevalier’s struggles, and those of Brice Samba at Stade Rennais and Alphonse Areola at West Ham United, new names have been thrown into the hat, including Jean Butez (Como) and Robin Risser (RC Lens). “I won’t say that everyone has a chance. They (Butez and Risser) are good goalkeepers; we are following them, but without going into detail, the position is very specific. There will be a deep consideration. Having experience is important. That is taken into account,” added Deschamps.

> READ: Is Lens’ Robin Risser the answer to France’s goalkeeper situation?

GFFN | Luke Entwistle