Safonov struggling at PSG, Pierre Ménès pleads for Chevalier's return

Matvey Safonov conceded two goals in PSG’s defeat to Monaco (1-2) last Friday, immediately reigniting the debate over the number-one goalkeeper position at Parc des Princes. The Russian, Luis Enrique’s undisputed starter, has struggled to win unanimous support since the start of the season.

Lucas Chevalier, recruited in summer 2025 to succeed Gianluigi Donnarumma — transferred to Manchester City — held the position for only a few months before losing his place to Safonov. Pundit Pierre Ménès views this removal as harsh. “After a few mistakes, Chevalier lost his place for good. I find that a bit unfair,” he said Monday on his YouTube channel, before adding: “Perhaps if Safonov continues to concede two goals per match, as has been the case since the start of the season, perhaps at some point Lucas will get another chance.”

Ménès was keen to clarify that his analysis was not based on the nationalities of the two goalkeepers. “I’m not saying that because Chevalier is French and Safonov is Russian, I don’t care about that at all. I believe Safonov is not a sufficient goalkeeper for a club of PSG’s stature,” he insisted, while acknowledging that the Russian keeper had fully contributed to the club’s second Ligue des Champions title won last season.

For now, Luis Enrique maintains his confidence in Safonov. But the French international, for his part, has not given up hope of reclaiming his place.