Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos has thrown his full support behind new goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, who replaces Gianluigi Donnarumma following his move to Manchester City. The Brazilian defender hailed the 23-year-old’s personality, quick adaptation and potential to reach the pinnacle of the game as PSG prepare to begin their Champions League title defence against Atalanta.
Baptism of fire for PSG’s new No.1
PSG captain Marquinhos has praised new signing Chevalier, describing him as a goalkeeper with the personality and quality to succeed at the highest level. Signed from Lille for €55 million (£46m/$60m) this summer, the Frenchman has been thrust into the spotlight after Donnarumma’s surprise departure to Manchester City. Despite his limited time at the club, he already impressed by making key saves in the UEFA Super Cup final against Tottenham, showing resilience after an early mistake.
AdvertisementAFPDonnarumma exit forces major transition
The arrival of Chevalier marks a major shift for Les Parisiens, who have kept most of their squad intact after winning their first Champions League title last season. Losing Donnarumma was unexpected, given his strong performances in Europe, but the Italian had been sidelined by Luis Enrique and was entering the final year of his contract with no progress on a renewal. PSG moved swiftly to secure Chevalier from Lille, making him one of the most expensive goalkeepers in history and underlining the immediate pressure on the 23-year-old to deliver.
Marquinhos gives glowing verdict
Speaking to ahead of PSG's match against Atalanta, Marquinhos said: "The adaptation was quick, he already speaks French very well. It's good (laughs).It's not easy to arrive in a team like that, after a goalkeeper who had a very good season."
He added: "He arrives with a very good personality. He's a goalkeeper we already knew, we played against him, we saw his potential. We saw that he's a goalkeeper who can reach the very highest level of goalkeeping; the coach, the staff, the management saw it too. He didn't have much time to adapt, we had a few training sessions and then the final where he was immediately decisive.
"He shows his qualities in every match. He has a different profile from Gigio and he will bring us some great things. I hope he will be as decisive for us this season because he has all the qualities and the potential to do so. He is ready, he is well, he has taken his responsibilities."
Getty Images SportUp next: Champions League test against Atalanta
The fomrer Lille star will make his Champions League debut on Wednesday as PSG host Atalanta at the Parc des Princes. The Parisians will need him to step up with Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue both sidelined through injury. With expectations sky-high, the young keeper now has the chance to prove he can handle the pressure of succeeding Donnarumma and help PSG defend their European crown.
