On the eve of their UEFA Super Cup clash against Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain is dealing with the emotional and public departure of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The 26-year-old, who was instrumental in the club’s Champions League triumph last season, was left out of the squad for the final, leading him to post a heartfelt farewell message to fans and teammates.
“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,” he wrote on social media, sparking an immediate reaction. The club has since confirmed that the decision was a tactical one made by coach Luis Enrique, who is reportedly seeking a different type of goalkeeper and has already brought in Lucas Chevalier.
In a pre-match press conference, Donnarumma’s teammates offered a mix of disappointment and acceptance. Nuno Mendes kept his comments brief, stating it was “the coach’s choice,” but PSG captain Marquinhos spoke with more reflection. “It’s always difficult… I’ve already seen other teammates go through this kind of situation,” he said. While praising Donnarumma’s contribution to the team’s history, Marquinhos emphasized a key philosophy of the club: “Players come and go, the club stays.”
Despite the off-field drama, the team is focused on the Super Cup, which pits the Champions League winners against the Europa League champions. For PSG, the match offers a chance to build on the momentum of last season’s treble, even after a stumble in the Club World Cup final. Marquinhos expressed the team’s unwavering ambition, noting that there are “no final objectives in our careers” and that the team is determined to “fight for all the trophies.”
The captain also discussed the team’s mental and physical state, admitting to fatigue after a long and successful season but feeling motivated by their recent victories. He also touched on the important role of experienced players in helping new signings like Lucas Chevalier integrate into the squad.
As the team prepares to face Tottenham, the focus will be on whether they can shake off the distraction of Donnarumma’s departure and start the new season with another piece of silverware.
