PSG Boss Makes Shock Goalkeeper Switch as Donnarumma Benched for Super Cup Victory

Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique made a stunning tactical decision by benching established goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma for Wednesday's Super Cup encounter against Tottenham, instead starting new signing Lucas Chevalier.

Despite Donnarumma's heroic performances during PSG's Champions League triumph last season, the Italian international was left out of the squad entirely. Enrique confirmed the controversial move was "100% his decision," seeking a "different profile" in goal. Donnarumma, who has one year remaining on his contract, has reportedly been made available for transfer.

Chevalier, recently acquired from Lille, immediately assumed the No.1 role and played a crucial part in PSG's victory. After a thrilling 2-2 draw in Udine featuring a late Parisian comeback from two goals down, the 23-year-old saved Micky van de Ven's penalty in the shootout to secure the trophy.

Football analyst Julian Laurens described the decision as a "brutal call," acknowledging Donnarumma's vital role in the Champions League win while understanding the shift in philosophy. "Lucas Chevalier is better on the ball, better in the air, better with distribution," Laurens told BBC Radio 5 Live, noting the newcomer replaces "probably the best goalkeeper in the world right now."

Former England keeper Paul Robinson emphasized the broader trend in football: "Donnarumma represents the older-style goalkeeper, the best shot-stopper. But modern teams want keepers who play in the defensive third. Enrique is leaning into building from the back." Chevalier's style, likened to a five-a-side player for his technical skill and line-breaking passes, aligns with PSG's desire to refine their possession-based approach.

Though Chevalier was arguably at fault for Spurs' second goal, he redeemed himself with a spectacular save onto the bar before his shootout heroics. His debut showcased the distribution skills PSG sought, frequently taking short goal kicks and participating actively in buildup play.

The move leaves Donnarumma's future uncertain. Manchester City has emerged as a potential destination, though Laurens expressed surprise, stating the Italian is "not a Pep Guardiola-type keeper" due to perceived limitations in aerial command and footwork. As Enrique bets on Chevalier's modern attributes fulfilling PSG's tactical evolution, this high-stakes goalkeeper switch could prove a defining masterstroke.