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via Reuters

via Reuters

With PSG flying high in Ligue 1, the team looks incredible on paper. Undoubtedly, the signings of Lionel Messi, Sergio Ramos, Achraf Hakimi, and Georginio Wijnaldum have made the Parisians strong contenders for this year’s Champions League title.

However, Gianluigi Donnarumma, who arrived at the club on a free transfer, now seems to be struggling with a number of issues. In his prime at the Euros, the Italian goalkeeper now looks unsettled, after failing to start in games, consecutively.

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Gianluigi Donnarumma wants more playing time

With Keylor Navas showing no signs of slowing down, Donnarumma seems unhappy on the bench. According to soccer journalist Fabrizio Romano, the goalkeeper wants more playing time at PSG.

“It has no effect on my performances, but it disturbs me. It’s not easy, because I was used to always starting and sometimes it hurts to be on the bench. But I’m sure the situation will be resolved,” said Donnarumma.

The Italian arrived on a high after winning the European Championships with Italy. His epic performance in the final penalty shootout helped Italy get their hands on the trophy.

Thus, his signing excited the PSG fans because of the potential and talent he possesses. Even though just 22, the Donnarumma is one of the most experienced keepers in the world. Considered as the successor to Italian legend Gianluigi Buffon, his failure to bag a spot in the starting line-up is surely disheartening.

However, not to forget, PSG’s first-choice keeper, Keylor Navas, is no stranger to the term legend and hence, it will take a lot of fight for Donnarumma to outperform his compatriot.

via Reuters

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Which goalkeeper should start for PSG?

Comparing the two keepers is difficult. Navas has started eight games this season while Donnarumma has made six appearances. The Italian goalkeeper is 12 years younger than his compatriot but is four inches taller than Navas at 6’4″. The physical attributes of Donnarumma are incredible, with the goalkeeper boasting a good amount of strength for his bulky frame. This makes him stand big in the posts, covering as much of the goal as possible.

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Adding to their attributes, Navas and Donnarumma have incredible levels of concentration, being world-class shot-stoppers. Even though shorter, Navas has kept out 72.7 percent of his saves when compared to Donnarumma’s 69.2 percent.

via Reuters

The significant part would be that Navas has won three consecutive Champions League titles in three years from 2016 to 2018. His performances earned him 12 trophies while Donnarumma has just started his career.

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Dropping either of these goalkeepers would be hard for Pochettino because of the quality they possess. Hence, it is safe to say, despite Donnarumma’s grievances, Poch would be happy to have two-world class goalkeepers in his squad.

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