Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Italian national team goalkeeper, has been omitted from Paris Saint-Germain’s squad by manager Luis Enrique, a decision the coach fully claimed responsibility for ahead of the European Super Cup. Donnarumma expressed being “delighted and embittered” by the move.
The goalkeeper conveyed his feelings directly in a message to PSG’s French supporters and his teammates, posted on Instagram. The post strongly suggests a definitive farewell.
“Unfortunately, someone has decided that I can no longer be part of this group and contribute to the team’s successes. This decision leaves me disappointed and embittered,” Donnarumma wrote, addressing the “special fans of Paris SG.” He continued, “From the first day I arrived, I gave my all on and off the field to earn my place and proudly defend PSG’s goal. I hope I still have the chance to look the Parc des Princes fans in the eye and say goodbye as you deserve. If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know your support and affection meant the world to me and I will never forget it.”
“I will always carry in my heart the memories of the emotions experienced, the magical nights, and you who made me feel at home,” the keeper added in his message. “To my teammates, my second family, thank you for every battle, every smile, and every shared moment. You will always be my brothers. Playing for this club and living in this city has been an immense honour for me. Thank you, Paris.”
On the eve of PSG’s match against Tottenham, Luis Enrique, while stating “Donnarumma is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, no doubt. And an even better person,” explained the exclusion: “Is he out of the squad? But this is the life of top-level footballers. I am 100% responsible for this difficult decision. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be me having to make it.” The Spanish coach added that the decision “has to do with the profile of goalkeeper my team requires.”