PSG crisis: Donnarumma left out of Super Cup and negotiates move to England

Donnarumma is dropped from PSG’s UEFA Super Cup squad, and speculations about his transfer to the Premier League are shaking up the 2025 transfer market. The 26-year-old Italian goalkeeper was excluded from the lineup for the match against Tottenham in Udine, Italy, after refusing to renew his contract with the French club, set to expire in 2026. The decision sparked an internal crisis, with the player feeling unfairly treated by the club’s management. Manchester United emerges as the leading destination, while Chelsea and other clubs monitor the situation. The arrival of goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier at PSG strengthens the likelihood of an imminent transfer. The Super Cup match is scheduled for this Wednesday at 4:00 PM (Brasília time), marking the official start of the 2025/26 season. The transfer market is set to see significant movement in the coming days.

The exclusion of Gianluigi Donnarumma from the Tottenham match caught the football world by surprise. The goalkeeper, a key figure in PSG’s Champions League triumph last season, now faces an uncertain moment in his career. The club’s decision to prioritize Chevalier, recently signed for up to R$347.9 million, signals a strategic shift at PSG.

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• Key reasons for the crisis:
  • Donnarumma refused to renew his contract with PSG.
  • Club bets on Lucas Chevalier as the new starter.
  • Italian goalkeeper feels wronged by the management.

The transfer market is heating up, and Donnarumma’s situation is a major talking point in Europe. The possibility of a move in this transfer window is gaining traction, particularly with interest from Premier League giants.

Market reaction to Donnarumma’s exclusion

The news of Donnarumma’s absence from the UEFA Super Cup triggered a wave of speculation on social media and in the international press. PSG’s decision to leave the Italian out was seen as a clear signal that the club is open to negotiating his departure. Manchester United, looking to bolster their squad after a disappointing season, is the frontrunner to sign him.

The Red Devils’ interest is not new. In recent months, the English club has tracked the goalkeeper, especially amid criticism of André Onana’s performances. Donnarumma’s arrival would aim to bring stability to United’s goal, which saw the team finish 15th in the last Premier League season. However, the Italian’s high salary, around €12 million per year, and PSG’s estimated €30 million transfer fee could pose challenges.

Chelsea has also entered the race, seeking an elite goalkeeper to compete with Robert Sanchez. Sources indicate that the London club contacted Donnarumma’s agent, Enzo Raiola, but the player’s preference for Manchester United may tip the scales. Clubs like Inter Milan and Galatasaray have also been mentioned as possible destinations, though the Premier League remains the most likely path.

• Clubs interested in Donnarumma:
  • Manchester United: seeking a replacement for Onana.
  • Chelsea: aiming to strengthen their goalkeeping with a big name.
  • Inter Milan: speculative interest, but less likely.
  • Galatasaray: betting on an ambitious project in Turkey.

Reasons behind the PSG crisis

The relationship between Donnarumma and PSG soured after months of failed contract renewal talks. The goalkeeper, who joined the club in 2021 after leaving Milan, demanded a salary increase, but PSG offered a new structure with lower wages and performance-based bonuses. The Italian’s refusal to accept the terms led to his exclusion from the Super Cup, a move seen as a clear message from the management.

The signing of 23-year-old Lucas Chevalier, who inked a five-year deal, reinforces the club’s change in direction. The young French goalkeeper, viewed as a long-term investment, was fast-tracked to be available for the Super Cup, indicating PSG’s plans for a future without Donnarumma. Coach Luis Enrique hasn’t ruled out the possibility of the Italian staying to compete for the starting spot, though this seems unlikely given the current tension.

Donnarumma’s reported sense of injustice reflects the pressure he’s under. After being pivotal in PSG’s treble (Champions League, Ligue 1, and Coupe de France) last season, the goalkeeper expected greater recognition. His exclusion from the first official match of 2025/26 was an unexpected blow, fueling speculation about his exit.

Impact on Manchester United and the Premier League

Manchester United’s interest in Donnarumma is strategic. Under Ruben Amorim’s management, the club is seeking high-profile signings to restore its prestige in the Premier League. The potential arrival of the Italian would be a statement, especially after Onana’s eight direct errors leading to goals since 2023. Donnarumma, with his experience in major competitions and commanding presence in goal, is seen as an elite solution.

However, the deal faces hurdles. United needs to clear salary space, which may involve offloading players like reserve goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. Additionally, the lack of European competitions in the 2025/26 season could be a stumbling block for attracting a player of Donnarumma’s caliber, who is accustomed to playing in the Champions League.

• Factors that may influence the transfer:
  • Donnarumma’s high salary (€12 million/year).
  • PSG’s transfer fee demand (€30 million).
  • United’s need to sell players to balance finances.

Chelsea, meanwhile, sees Donnarumma as a chance to address their own goalkeeping issues. Robert Sanchez had inconsistent performances last season, and signing a goalkeeper of the Italian’s level could elevate Enzo Maresca’s squad. The rivalry between the two English clubs promises to be fierce, with United holding an edge due to the player’s preference.

Super Cup scenario and Chevalier’s debut

The UEFA Super Cup, set for Wednesday in Udine, will be PSG’s first test without Donnarumma. The clash against Tottenham, the reigning Europa League champions, puts the spotlight on Lucas Chevalier. The young goalkeeper, signed for €40 million (with up to €15 million in bonuses), is one of French football’s rising stars and will have a chance to shine on a global stage.

Luis Enrique’s choice of Chevalier reflects his confidence in the club’s renewal project. PSG is building a younger squad aligned with a leaner salary structure. Chevalier’s potential debut marks a turning point for the club, but it’s also a high-stakes test against a formidable opponent like Tottenham.

• UEFA Super Cup details:
  • Date: August 13, 2025, at 4:00 PM (Brasília time).
  • Venue: Udine, Italy.
  • Opponent: Tottenham, Europa League champions.
  • PSG’s bet: Lucas Chevalier as the new starter.

Donnarumma’s future and next steps

Donnarumma’s departure from PSG seems increasingly likely, but his destination remains uncertain. The Premier League is the most probable scenario, with Manchester United and Chelsea leading the race. The Italian, who has won the Euros with Italy and the Champions League with PSG, is looking for a project that combines sporting ambition and financial stability.

The transfer window, closing in a few weeks, will be decisive. If no deal is reached now, Donnarumma could see out the final year of his contract and leave as a free agent in 2026, which would be a financial blow for PSG. Selling him for €30 million could be a viable solution for the French club, which has already invested heavily in Chevalier.

The crisis between Donnarumma and PSG also raises questions about the club’s management of star players. The decision to bench him for such a high-profile match was seen as drastic but reflects PSG’s new focus on the collective over individual names.

• Possible scenarios for Donnarumma:
  • Immediate transfer to Manchester United.
  • Negotiations with Chelsea or another Premier League club.
  • Staying until 2026 and leaving as a free agent.
  • Interest from clubs outside Europe, such as Galatasaray or Al Ittihad.

The transfer market is set for intense activity, with Donnarumma at the center of attention. His decision will be one of the biggest stories in European football in the coming weeks.