PSG’s Treatment of Gianluigi Donnarumma Criticized After Manchester City Move

Gianluigi Donnarumma’s departure from Paris Saint-Germain has sparked intense debate, with former PSG defender Faouzi Ghoulam slamming the club for “disrespecting” the Italian goalkeeper. Donnarumma’s transfer to Manchester City has left many questioning PSG’s decision-making, especially after criticism of his footwork led to him being dropped from the squad.

Gianluigi Donnarumma’s PSG Exit: What Went Wrong?

Gianluigi Donnarumma, once hailed as one of the world’s premier goalkeepers, found himself sidelined at PSG after recurring doubts about his footwork. Despite his excellent shot-stopping abilities and international pedigree, the club opted to move on, citing concerns over his ability to play out from the back—a skill highly valued in modern football.

Faouzi Ghoulam, who played alongside Donnarumma in Ligue 1, voiced his disappointment with PSG’s handling of the situation. He argued that the criticisms of Donnarumma’s footwork were exaggerated and did not warrant such a drastic decision. According to Ghoulam, “The complaints about his footwork make no sense. He’s a goalkeeper of the highest quality and deserved better treatment.”

Manchester City Steps In: A New Opportunity for Donnarumma

After being excluded from PSG’s plans, Donnarumma quickly became a target for Europe’s elite clubs. Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, recognized his potential and offered him a fresh start. Guardiola, known for nurturing ball-playing goalkeepers, was reportedly unconcerned about Donnarumma’s footwork, prioritizing his shot-stopping talent and commanding presence instead.

Donnarumma’s move to City is seen as a significant statement, both for the player and the club. It highlights Guardiola’s confidence in his ability to develop players and adapt tactics to individual strengths. For Donnarumma, it represents a chance to silence critics and prove his value at the highest level of competition.

Footwork Controversy: Was PSG’s Critique Justified?

The focus on Donnarumma’s footwork at PSG has raised questions about the evolving demands on modern goalkeepers. While ball distribution is increasingly important, Ghoulam and other football insiders believe that Donnarumma’s strengths far outweigh his perceived weaknesses. They argue that PSG’s decision to prioritize footwork over traditional goalkeeping skills may have been shortsighted.

Statistically, Donnarumma’s passing accuracy has improved over recent seasons, and his ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations remains undisputed. His role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph stands as a testament to his class and mentality under pressure.

Faouzi Ghoulam Defends Gianluigi Donnarumma and Calls Out PSG

Faouzi Ghoulam did not hold back in his assessment of PSG’s handling of Donnarumma. Speaking to media outlets, he stated, “To force out a goalkeeper of Donnarumma’s caliber because of footwork concerns is a glaring mistake. PSG have disrespected a player who gave everything for the club.”

Ghoulam’s comments have resonated widely with fans and pundits alike. Many agree that PSG’s stringent expectations may have led them to overlook Donnarumma’s proven match-winning capabilities. His exit is now viewed as a significant loss for the Ligue 1 giants, especially as he prepares to take on the Premier League with Manchester City.

What Does This Mean for PSG’s Goalkeeping Future?

With Donnarumma gone, PSG faces the challenge of finding a replacement who matches his quality and experience. The club’s decision to prioritize ball-playing skills in their next goalkeeper could come under scrutiny if results falter or if Donnarumma excels in England.

Meanwhile, City’s acquisition is being hailed as a smart move, with Guardiola’s track record suggesting that Donnarumma’s weaknesses can be addressed through targeted coaching and tactical adjustments.

Looking Ahead: Donnarumma’s Next Chapter at Manchester City

All eyes will be on Donnarumma as he begins his journey at Manchester City. The Premier League’s pace and intensity will be a new test, but under Guardiola’s guidance, many believe he can reach new heights. Donnarumma’s determination to prove his doubters wrong could fuel a resurgence in his career.

For PSG, the fallout from this decision may linger, especially if Donnarumma thrives in England. The debate about the importance of footwork versus traditional goalkeeping skills is unlikely to go away anytime soon.

Opinion: PSG May Regret Letting Donnarumma Go

PSG’s decision to move on from Gianluigi Donnarumma seems hasty in hindsight. While modern tactics demand goalkeepers who excel at distribution, elite shot-stoppers are a rarity. If Donnarumma finds success at Manchester City—as many expect—it could highlight the risks of overemphasizing one aspect of a player’s skillset. For more news and in-depth football analysis, visit for more news.