Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has indicated that PSG will choose him over Keylor Navas in the summer transfer window.
This year, the two shot-stoppers have gone head to head for the number one position at Le Parc des Princes. But with both men desiring first-team football next season, the French side have to decide which man can take them forward. And according to Donnarumma, they intend on opting for him.
He told AFP: “I want to stay here at Paris Saint-Germain. It wasn’t an easy season. I played half the games and couldn’t give my best. Competition with Keylor Navas again next year? No, it won’t be like that. The club will make choices.”
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Keylor Navas and Gianluigi Donnarumma have battled for the goalkeeping role all season
Usually, a club has a set man between the sticks, who they rely on in all the big games. But the situation has been different for the French side this campaign. Their two goalkeepers have played almost the exact same amount of matches, with Donnarumma coming in with a grand total of 23, while Navas has a higher tally of 25.
The Italian has managed to edge his rival out in Champions League games, by a score of 5-3. But in contrast, the Costa Rican has the bragging rights in Ligue 1 with 20 appearances compared to his rival’s 16.
However, despite the men matching up so evenly on paper, it appears they’re only going in one direction. They prefer Donnarumma’s mental composure and decision making to Navas’ quick reflexes and supreme shot-stopping ability.
Keylor Navas has struggled with competition at other clubs
Despite his energetic goalkeeping style, this must feel like the return of a bad dream for Navas. While at Real Madrid, he found himself thrown by the wayside in favour of Thibaut Courtois. But hopefully, if PSG makes the tough call to get rid of him, he’ll find a team where his agility and athleticism in goal will truly be appreciated.
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