Donnarumma weakness hinted at as PSG introduce Chevalier | OneFootball

The announcement of Lucas Chevalier to Paris Saint-Germain confirms why Gianluigi Donnarumma was pushed out, and it is an issue that affected the Italian throughout his career.

Many were shocked by the decision to spend a reported €55m including add-ons to purchase Chevalier from LOSC when they already had perhaps the best goalkeeper in the world right now.

REGGIO NELL’EMILIA, ITALY – JUNE 9: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy during the FIFA 2026 Qualifier between Italy and Moldova at Mapei Stadium – Citta’ del Tricolore on June 09, 2025 in Reggio nell’Emilia, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

It is true that the main problem was the contract negotiations, as his current deal expires at the end of the season and Donnarumma refused a pay cut, or a restructuring of the agreement that would make much of his salary into performance-related bonuses.

In the presentation of Chevalier, the other matter around the Italy international was made clear.

Chevalier brings something Donnarumma lacks

MUNICH, GERMANY – MAY 31: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates after Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain (not pictured) scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League Final 2025 between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Internazionale Milano at Munich Football Arena on May 31, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

“Comfortable on his line, in one-on-one situations, and in the air, he also has excellent distribution skills,” read the PSG statement.

It is no secret that Luis Enrique likes to start moves from the back and this is something Donnarumma has always struggled with.

“He is a coach who has a particular playing style,” added Chevalier to the club website.

“The role of the goalkeeper is very important in his system, he expects me to be at the centre of the moves, that I should be an added value. It is flattering that he saw this in me.”

Donnarumma has certainly improved with the ball at his feet compared to his early days at Milan and for Italy, but it remains an undoubted weakness in his game.

An excellent shot-stopper, he is nonetheless not the goalkeeper you want to act as an additional sweeper.