Paris Saint-Germain began their Ligue 1 title defence with a 1-0 win over Angers on Friday night, but it was Gianluigi Donnarumma’s emotional post-match moment with the club’s ultras that drew the biggest attention, amid growing speculation over his future.
The Italian goalkeeper, left out of the squad, joined his teammates on the pitch at full-time dressed in jeans and a hoodie.
As the players acknowledged the supporters, Donnarumma was seen chatting with Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos and Fabian Ruiz before being gently nudged forward by Hakimi and Ruiz to stand alone in the penalty area in front of the Auteuil end.
What followed was a moving exchange, PSG’s ultras chanted in his honour while Donnarumma applauded them in return, soaking up the ovation in what felt like a farewell.
He remained there for over 30 seconds, clapping and waving, before teammates embraced him.
The 26-year-old then climbed over the advertising boards to get closer to the supporters, continuing to applaud in what appeared to be a symbolic goodbye.
The moment came as negotiations advanced between PSG and Manchester City over a late-window deal. Pep Guardiola, speaking earlier on Friday, admitted uncertainty over his goalkeeping pecking order.
Despite previously insisting Ederson was number one, the Brazilian missed last weekend’s clash with Wolves due to illness, and City are now prepared to let him go, with Galatasaray showing interest.
Donnarumma has emerged as the leading candidate to take his place. Asked about the situation before facing Tottenham, Guardiola was deliberately non-committal:
“We’ll see tomorrow, we’ll see who trains good,” said the City boss. “We’ll talk with [goalkeeping coach] Xabi [Mancisidor] and we’ll see. New players always bring energy.”
James Trafford, a £27m summer signing from Burnley, impressed on debut, but City are still considering reinforcements.
A European Championship and Champions League winner, Donnarumma was informed earlier this month that he no longer features in PSG’s plans following the arrival of Lucas Chevalier from Lille.
Despite playing a crucial role in last season’s treble success, he has been told to secure a move before the transfer window closes.
Manchester United have also been linked, though senior sources at Old Trafford have dismissed the likelihood of a deal, citing his high wages and Ineos’ focus on younger, more affordable signings.