PSG coach Luis Enrique wants ‘different profile’ from Donnarumma

On Tuesday, Paris Saint-Germain's coach Luis Enrique defended his choice to exclude Gianluigi Donnarumma from the squad ahead of the upcoming season, emphasizing the need for a goalkeeper with a "different" profile.

With PSG's acquisition of Lucas Chevalier from Lille, Donnarumma seems poised to leave, especially after Luis Enrique omitted the Italian from his lineup for Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup against Tottenham.

“These decisions are always challenging to make. I can only express my admiration for Donnarumma,” the Spaniard stated during a press conference in Udine.

“‘Gigio’ is certainly among the top players in his position. He is an even better individual, but we were in search of a different kind of goalkeeper.

“My objective is to enhance the team. This is my choice, and the club stands behind me.”

Donnarumma played a crucial role in the latter part of last season’s Champions League, helping PSG secure the trophy for the first time with a decisive 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the final.

Donnarumma — who is reportedly being pursued by Manchester United and Chelsea — expressed his “disappointment” regarding his exclusion.

“From the very first day I joined, I committed myself fully — both on and off the field — to earn my position and protect the goal of Paris Saint-Germain,” the 26-year-old remarked in an Instagram post.

“Regrettably, someone has made the decision that I can no longer be part of the group or contribute to the team’s achievements. I feel disappointed and disheartened.

Donnarumma has made 161 appearances for Paris since signing from AC Milan in 2021.

He has won seven major trophies with the European champions, while he also played a big role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph.

“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,” he added.

“If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know that your support and affection mean the world to me.”

PSG captain Marquinhos, who has been with the club since 2013, admitted it was hard to see Donnarumma pushed towards the exit door.

“It’s always difficult,” Marquinhos told reporters.

“In the 12 or 13 years I’ve been here, I’ve seen the same thing happen to other important players, who were forced to choose another club at the end of the transfer window and leave.

“Our life is like that, football is like that. As players, all we can do is give our all until the last minute while we’re here.”

Luis Enrique’s men also start their Ligue 1 title defence this weekend with a trip to Nantes on Sunday.