Donnarumma praises PSG’s unity post-Mbappé, shines in Champions League final berth

On the night of May 7, 2025, Paris Saint-Germain fans flooded the streets of Paris, celebrating a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Arsenal that secured their place in the Champions League final. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, with a series of stunning saves, emerged as the standout performer at the Emirates Stadium. After the match, the Italian highlighted the team’s evolution since Kylian Mbappé’s departure to Real Madrid in June 2024. The newfound unity within the squad, he noted, has been the cornerstone of PSG’s remarkable 2024/25 season.

The semifinal clash against Arsenal was a grueling test. Having won the first leg 1-0 in Paris, PSG faced intense pressure in London, particularly in the opening half. Donnarumma’s sharp reflexes thwarted goals from Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, preserving the lead. In the second half, PSG asserted dominance, with goals from Bradley Barcola and Marquinhos, while Kai Havertz pulled one back for Arsenal.

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• Team unity: Donnarumma emphasized the squad’s cohesion as a key factor.
• Critical saves: The goalkeeper’s stops were pivotal in high-pressure moments.
• Tactical shift: PSG adopted a more collective approach under Luis Enrique.

👀😃 Donnarumma et le départ de Mbappé : « L'état d'esprit a changé, nous sommes plus une équipe. L'équipe est très unie, nous sommes très bien ensemble. Nous avons gagné un Euro comme ça, cela fait la différence dans toutes les équipes. » pic.twitter.com/8fMDxNzuvI

— ParisSG INFOS (@Paris_sginfos) May 7, 2025

Revamped mindset

Gianluigi Donnarumma, at 26, has emerged as a leader for PSG this season. In a post-match interview, he likened the team’s unity to that of the Italian national team that won Euro 2020. Mbappé’s exit, after scoring 256 goals in seven years at the club, marked a turning point. According to Donnarumma, while Mbappé’s absence is felt, it has galvanized the squad, fostering a collective spirit over individual brilliance.

PSG’s response to Mbappé’s departure included targeted signings like João Neves and Bradley Barcola, injecting youth and dynamism. Under Luis Enrique, who took charge in July 2023, the team has embraced a more robust defensive structure, with Donnarumma as its backbone. The goalkeeper has played every minute of PSG’s 13 Champions League matches, conceding just 9 goals.

Saves that sealed the final

Against Arsenal, Donnarumma proved why he’s among the world’s elite goalkeepers. In the first half, with Arsenal pressing, he made a breathtaking save on a close-range shot from Odegaard. Later, he denied Saka in a one-on-one, preserving PSG’s lead. His performance earned widespread praise from fans and pundits, cementing his status as the hero of the tie.

Donnarumma’s composure stems from his experience in high-stakes matches. A Euro 2020 champion and the tournament’s best player, he has brought a winning mentality to PSG. He noted that the squad’s unity mirrors Italy’s triumphant campaign, with players fully committed to a shared goal.

• Odegaard’s shot: A reflex save stopped a certain goal in the first half.
• Saka’s attempt: Donnarumma held firm in a crucial moment.
• On-field leadership: He marshaled the defense under pressure.
• Euro 2020 parallel: The team’s spirit echoes Italy’s success.

Luis Enrique’s transformation

Luis Enrique has redefined PSG since taking the helm. After years of relying on stars like Mbappé, Neymar, and Lionel Messi, the Spanish coach introduced a balanced system. The midfield, anchored by Vitinha and João Neves, provides stability, while wingers Ousmane Dembélé and Barcola add pace.

In the semifinal, PSG neutralized Arsenal with high pressing and swift transitions. Barcola’s goal, born from a team move, showcased the new philosophy. Marquinhos’ header sealed the win, highlighting the squad’s set-piece prowess. Luis Enrique, a Champions League winner with Barcelona in 2015, has guided PSG to 10 wins in 13 matches in the competition.

Mbappé’s exit and new identity

Kylian Mbappé’s departure in June 2024 closed a chapter for PSG. The forward, who scored 44 goals in the 2023/24 season, was the centerpiece of a star-driven project. His free transfer to Real Madrid raised questions, but PSG responded with a strategic overhaul.

Emerging talents like Bradley Barcola, 22, have stepped up, with 12 goals and 8 assists this season. João Neves, signed from Benfica for €70 million, has added energy to the midfield. Mbappé’s absence has allowed PSG to forge a team-oriented identity, reducing reliance on individual flair.

Fans rejoice in Paris

The Arsenal victory sparked jubilation in Paris. Thousands of supporters gathered at landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and Place de la Bastille, chanting club anthems. The Eiffel Tower glowed in PSG’s blue and red, a tribute to the team’s triumph.

Fans, longing for the club’s first Champions League title, displayed banners proclaiming unity. The cohesion Donnarumma praised resonates with the fanbase, which has embraced the team’s new era. The final, set for May 31, 2025, in Wembley, has already gripped the city.

• Street celebrations: Fans packed the Champs-Élysées post-match.
• Eiffel Tower tribute: The landmark lit up in club colors.
• Fan optimism: Supporters believe in a historic title.

Rising stars shine

PSG’s youth movement is a cornerstone of their success. Bradley Barcola, signed from Lyon, has become a starter, his speed and finishing troubling defenses. João Neves, 20, impresses with his passing and tenacity. Warren Zaïre-Emery, 19, and Nuno Mendes, 22, round out a talented young core.

The starting lineup against Arsenal had an average age of 24.8, among the youngest in the competition. This blend of youth and experience, with Donnarumma as a guiding figure, has drawn plaudits. PSG’s €150 million investment in new talent for 2024/25 reflects a focus on long-term growth.

Gearing up for Wembley

The Champions League final, scheduled for Wembley on May 31, 2025, pits PSG against either Bayern Munich or Real Madrid, pending the other semifinal’s outcome. PSG aims to claim their first title, having fallen to Bayern in the 2020 final.

Luis Enrique has begun preparations, prioritizing player recovery and tactical tweaks. Presnel Kimpembe, nearing a return from injury, could bolster the squad. Donnarumma, in top form, will be crucial, as PSG exudes confidence after a stellar campaign.

Veterans provide stability

Experienced players like Marquinhos and Keylor Navas anchor PSG’s young squad. Marquinhos, the captain, scored against Arsenal and leads the team in appearances this season with 42 games. Navas, Donnarumma’s backup, offers wisdom from three Champions League titles with Real Madrid.

Vitinha, 25, has emerged as a technical leader, dictating play with precision. The synergy between veterans and youngsters, as Donnarumma noted, fosters a tight-knit group. The goalkeeper stressed that this unity sets PSG apart in their quest for glory.

• Marquinhos’ impact: The captain scored and led by example.
• Navas’ influence: His experience uplifts the squad.
• Vitinha’s role: The midfielder drives the team’s rhythm.

Champions League journey

PSG’s path to the final featured 10 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss in 13 matches. They scored 28 goals and conceded 9, showcasing offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Wins over Manchester City, Atlético Madrid, and Arsenal underlined their credentials.

Donnarumma’s consistency, with 5 clean sheets, has been vital. The 2024/25 campaign marks PSG’s strongest Champions League run since 2020. Fans hope this time will bring the coveted trophy to Paris.

A solidified project

The final berth underscores PSG’s status as a European powerhouse. Since Qatar’s investment in 2011, the club has chased continental success. Mbappé’s exit, once a concern, sparked a renaissance, with Luis Enrique and president Nasser Al-Khelaifi steering the club to new heights.

Wembley offers PSG a chance to etch their name in history. Donnarumma and his teammates, united as never before, are poised to seize the moment and deliver Paris its first Champions League crown.