Gianluigi Donnarumma is the undisputed starter for the Italian national team that won the UEFA Euros this past summer. However, at the club level, the 22-year-old splits the starts with Keylor Navas.
In the past, Mauricio Pochettino has downplayed any rift between the goalkeepers. Nonetheless, when both players are used to being the regular starters for the team, this situation is complicated for them to handle.
Donnarumma spoke to TNT Sports (via Marca), and he vented some frustration on the matter since he came from AC Milan, where he was the number one goalkeeper.
“It doesn’t affect my performances, but it bothers me,” Donnarumma said. “It’s not easy because I’m used to always being first choice, and it hurts to be on the bench. I’m sure the situation will resolve itself, though.”
PSG boxed themselves into a situation here. When they knew that signing Donnarumma was a possibility, the capital club should’ve looked to sell Navas to avoid this matter.
The January window could present a lifeline for Les Parisiens as they could look to sell Navas this window to avoid the subject for the remainder of the season. Nonetheless, another season where it seems both players aren’t happy with the situation shouldn’t continue.