Lucas Chevalier pulled out his fists. During the night from Sunday to Monday, the French doorman took possession of his account Instagram to empty his bag after having been at the center of a controversy all day. Indeed, he would have liked a pro-RN publication on the social network. Which he firmly denied, ensuring that this is the opposite of his beliefs. A matter in which Paris Saint-Germain, which supports the goalkeeper, like the French player would have gone well. Especially since there was a very important match to play on Sunday at Groupama Stadium against OL. The French champions won with a score of 3 to 2. But Chevalier experienced certain difficulties.
Lucas Chevalier does not reassure
Powerless on the equalizer from Afonso Moreira, who won his duel against him (1-1, 30th), he was lobbed by Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the 50th (2-2). This time, his positioning has been singled out, although Luis Enrique and his teammates assure that he is not at fault and that it is the defenders who are to blame. He may not be the only one at fault, but he is still responsible. The French press did not spare him after the final whistle, evoking another unsuccessful match for the former LOSC player. Some Parisian supporters were more virulent on X. He was described as “worst goalkeeper of PSG”. Others still don’t understand why Paris didn’t keep Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Finally, some voices are being raised for PSG to try it with Matvey Safonov (26 years old, 0 matches this season). But for the moment, Luis Enrique does not seem determined to change his hierarchy, despite Chevalier’s errors. The Russian is starting to lose patience. Last month, he opened the door to a departure, wishing to have playing time. Especially since he believes he has the qualities to be number 1 or at least really compete with Chevalier. In the country, we still do not understand the treatment of Matvey Safonov, especially since Lucas Chevalier is not indisputable and does not impress at all. This Tuesday, Sov Sportwho mentioned the controversy linked to the RN concerning the Frenchman, indicates that he was strongly criticized by certain supporters who demanded his departure.
Some campaign for Matvey Safonov
Regarding the field, the Russian media wrote: “Meanwhile, Matvey Safonov celebrates a sad milestone: he spent 25 consecutive matches on the bench. Even his opponent’s errors do not seem to impact the Russian’s tenure. Lately, the Frenchman has been more and more uncertain in goal. Take the example of the recent match against Lyon (3-2), where a mistake by Chevalier allowed the opponent to score their second goal in the 50th minute, thus equalizing the score. But Luis Enrique stubbornly refuses to give Matvey a chance. Although the Russian gives his all in training and is always ready to fight, he needs playing time in matches. »
Sports Sov continues: “Moreover, it seems that there is no conflict between Safonov and Zabarnyi. It is precisely this incident which sowed doubt about the future of our player within the Parisian club. A video is now circulating on social media, showing the Ukrainian shaking hands with a teammate on a plane. The player, whose face is off-camera, was identified as Matvey thanks to the two rings he usually wears. » Sport Express also questions the management of Parisian guards. “Morton curled the ball for Maitland-Niles, who brilliantly lobbed a helpless Knight. What if Safonov came into play? The question seems rhetorical. Matvey will play for the national team. »
Russia wants change in the Parisian cages
Precisely, in the national team, we also believe that he is not treated at his fair value. This is the case of Vitaly Kafanov, the goalkeeper coach of the Russian selection. Asked by Sport Expresshe confided: “yes, Matvey is number one (in selection). Despite the lack of playing time at PSG, he is in excellent shape thanks to constant training with big names. » Then he was clear about the competition with Chevalier. “I don’t think (it’s unrealistic to think he can beat the Frenchman). These goalkeepers are about the same level. You just have to give Matvey at least three matches in a row. Then, he will progress from match to match. »
He added: “Goalkeepers must never give up. They must be prepared for such situations from the start, as soon as they choose this thankless profession. Especially when a Russian goalkeeper has the chance to play in the best club in Europe. What other motivation do you need to train daily with today’s best players, winners of the Champions League? » Despite everything, a departure is not impossible. “It’s the destiny of goalkeepers. It is impossible to field two for the same match. Matvey must bide his time and seize it when it presents itself. Personally, I don’t think it’s appropriate to give him advice (on his future). Matvey will make his own decision when he considers it necessary. » Sov Sport shared another, sharper statement from Vitaly Kafanov: “They fear that Safonov will take Chevalier’s place, because he cost €40 million. » In Russia, we continue to push for Matvey Safonov to finally have his chance against Lucas Chevalier, who is not unanimous.
