Donnarumma denies rumours of a rift with Keylor Navas

It was easy to see why PSG went all the way to sign Messi. For a certain transfer, it was not so much the same.

When PSG moved to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma in the just concluded summer, many were left wondering why they exactly made that decision. Agreed, the Italian goalkeeper is easily one of the best shot-stoppers in world football, without a doubt. However, the presence of another proven performer in Keylor Navas made many heads roll around that transfer.

From one perspective, there was the point of PSG wanting to have two class goalkeepers in their ranks. From another perspective, there was the simple question of how both of them will fit into the club’s plans, especially regarding balance for game time.

As expected, it has been a somewhat difficult situation for Pochettino to manage. The Argentine manager has so far had to rotate both goalkeepers. Since the start of the season, Donnarumma has amassed a total of 360 minutes across all competitions, while Keylor Navas has seen double that amount with 720 minutes.

With all of the above in mind, recent reports suggested Donnarumma was not pleased with the current situation and even had a rift with Keylor Navas.

Reflecting on recent rumours that have made the rounds, the 22-year-old goalkeeper has come out to say that all is well, and he has no issues with his current situation or with fellow goalie Keylor Navas.

What has been said

In an interview quoted by Marca, Donnarumma categorically stated that he had no issues with Keylor Navas. The young goalkeeper said this while on international duty with Italy.

He further added that it was expected he would struggle in the initial stages at PSG and doesn’t see anything wrong with that. He concluded by saying he is fine with the number of minutes he has seen so far while adding that he is hopeful of a positive stint in France.

Donnarumma also downplayed questions comparing the playing of Italy boss Roberto Mancini and Mauricio Pochettino.

Who should be PSG’s no 1 goalkeeper?

It is a difficult question to answer on paper, but the fact remains that Navas has barely put a wrong foot since he joined the club. Considering the fact that he is already settled in France and has built some team chemistry with the players, it would only make sense that Navas keeps his spot.

Given that Donnarumma is still only 22, he still has a large ceiling of potential, and there is more than ample time on his hands to eventually take over as the club’s no 1 in a couple of years from now.