PROFILE | Doubts persist about PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma

As the curtain fell on last season, the discussions among the Paris Saint-Germain fanbase revolved extensively around goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The primary focus was his need to be more decisive in crucial moments. Though the narrative has improved this season, the Italian goalkeeper still has areas that warrant refinement.

Donnarumma is a tall goalkeeper (6ft5). Normally, goalkeepers with these dimensions have their own particular characteristics: imposing in the air but can lack mobility when diving onto the ground. But with “Gigio” Donnarumma, it is quite the opposite. Despite his imposing build, the Italian goalkeeper’s strength has always been his ability to get down on the ground quickly despite his height, however, he is struggling to establish himself in the air.

Luis Enrique has been appointed as PSG’s new manager. As we know, the Spanish coach likes goalkeepers who are comfortable with their footwork and who do not get nervous when under pressure – in 2022, during the game against Real Madrid, Donnarumma showed how poor he could be in this aspect of his game.

Donnarumma under pressure at PSG?

Given Luis Enrique’s playing philosophy and Donnarumma’s clear weaknesses, it perhaps wouldn’t be a complete surprise if the Spaniard didn’t completely trust the Italian goalkeeper. This impression was also confirmed when former Barcelona goalkeeper Arnau Tenas – known for the quality of playing with his feet– was signed by PSG a few weeks after Enrique arrived at the club.

Surprisingly, Donnarumma’s footwork displayed signs of improvement, which can be attributed to PSG’s clearer build-up mechanisms from the back. However, further enhancements are required for the Italian goalkeeper to be entirely at ease. His body shape often gives the impression of a nonchalant player taking too much time on the ball, as evident in a game against AS Monaco, where a mistimed clearance led to a goal for Takumi Minamino.

Donnarumma’s time at Paris Saint-Germain has been marked by high expectations, but lingering concerns exist about his fit for the club’s ambitions. While he has shown improvement this season in stopping shots compared to the last, questions persist about his consistency and decision-making in critical moments.

PSG’s reported interest in French goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier indicates a proactive approach to alternative options. Pursuing a French goalkeeper underscores the club’s commitment to excellence, suggesting that Donnarumma’s position may only face scrutiny with broader improvements.

GFFN | Jerry-Morel Takou