Enrique admits to swinging the axe, Donnarumma reacts to being forced out of PSG
Luis Enrique has admitted that he is the one responsible for botching Gianluigi Donnarumma’s contract negotiations with the club and pushing for his exit.
The Italy international was one of the top goalkeepers in Europe last season, helping the team win the UCL and reach the Club World Cup final. However, he is now set to leave the club after a breakdown in contract talks.
What Enrique said
The 26-year-old has only one year left in his PSG contract, and there have been talks of a renewal. However, PSG are prepared to let him go, despite his relatively young age. Enrique has come out to claim full responsibility.
"Donnarumma is out of the squad, as it’s my own decision. I am 100% responsible. I want a different kind of goalkeeper, and I made this decision. Gigio is one of the best GKs in the whole world," he said, per Fabrizio.
Shortly after Enrique's admission, Donnarumma put out his own statement. The former Milan man expressed hurt and said he hoped to have a chance to say goodbye to the fans.
What Donnarumma said
“To the special Paris fans, from the first day I arrived, I gave everything – on and off the pitch – to earn my place and defend the goal of Paris Saint-Germain,” he said.
“Unfortunately, someone has decided that I can no longer be part of the group and contribute to the team’s success. I am disappointed and disheartened.
“I hope to have the opportunity to look the fans at the Parc des Princes in the eyes one more time and say goodbye as it should be done.
“If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know that your support and affection mean the world to me, and I will never forget it. I will always carry with me the memory of all the emotions, the magical nights, and of you, who made me feel at home.
“To my teammates – my second family – thank you for every battle, every laugh, every moment we shared. You will always be my brothers. Playing for this club and living in this city has been an immense honour. Thank you, Paris.”
Meanwhile, the club's captain, Marquinhos, had a cavalier reaction to Donnarumma's exit, stating that players come and players go. Also, the club have already signed their desired replacement, Lucas Chevalier.