It's hard to blame him. Recruited for just under 18 million euros from Krasnodar in July 2024, Matvey Safonov has reason to be disappointed with his situation at PSG. The goalkeeper had nevertheless set the bar very high upon his arrival in the capital. “ To be PSG's number two goalkeeper? I don't understand that. No one ever told me I was number two. I come to Paris to fight”, he declared to a Russian journalist.
However, his two seasons spent in the red and blue jersey strongly resemble those of a number two. During his first in 2024-2025, the Russian participated in 17 matches (10 in Ligue 1, 5 in the Coupe de France and 2 in the Champions League). He even started during the famous defeat in the C1 league phase against Bayern Munich (1-0). The 26-year-old goalkeeper was unable to take advantage of Gianluigi Donnarumma's sidelining, and was even at fault for Min-Jae Kim's opening goal from a corner in the 38th minute.
This season, his only minutes have come in friendly matches with the Russian national team. Two victories, against Qatar (1-4) on September 7 then against Iran (2-1) on October 10. One hundred percent tenure with his selection which contrasts with his playing time at club. In Paris, Safonov is barred by competition. The recent arrival of Lucas Chevalier, on course to be number one all season, makes the Russian doubt his near future.
“My future will have to wait until the transfer window opens”
In comments relayed by the media Sport Expressthe goalkeeper was first grateful to his coach Valeri Karpin. “I'm so happy to be back on the field! I can't help but say how grateful I am to the national team for their trust and for the opportunity to get playing time.” A form of relief in the face of a difficult situation at the club. A situation which, according to Matvey Safonov, could change in the coming months with a potential departure from Paris Saint-Germain if his status does not change.
“ My future will have to wait until the transfer window opens. For now, I'm dedicating all my time to changing the situation. I want to prove that I deserve to play, I'm not happy with the lack of playing time. Naturally, I want to play and prove that I deserve to have playing time and that I can compete. “Even if he assures it, it has nothing to do with Luis Enrique, or with recruitment” I wouldn't say that the competition has become tougher. It's not me who decides the composition of the team. And I have nothing to say against the coach. » To be continued.
