Summary
Arsenal’s chances of winning the Champions League depend on how well or poorly Gianluigi Donnarumma performs. Often referred to as a “human wall” and a “calamity keeper,” Donnarumma has made both game-winning saves and startling mistakes. Donnarumma’s performance could determine the result as Arsenal gets ready to meet PSG in France. He is dangerous due to his enormous size and smart positioning, but his recent mistakes and passing difficulties raise doubts. This game may also determine his future because PSG is thinking of replacing him.
Imagine going up against a goalkeeper that is so large and talented that he will beat your finest shots. Sometimes, that’s Gianluigi Donnarumma for you. He is like a human wall when he is at his finest. At his worst? A disaster in the making.
Donnarumma is the center of attention as Arsenal prepares for their Champions League match in France. Will he perform like the unstoppable goaltender who prevented them from scoring last week? Or the unsteady one who let easy goals in October of last year?
To remain in the tournament, Arsenal has to score. However, the appearance of Donnarumma may determine whether they are able to accomplish that.
The Two Sides of Donnarumma: Heroism and Heartache
He was incredible last week. He blocked everything with his long arms and quick reflexes. He seemed to be wearing magnets in his gloves!
However, things were different a few months ago. Gianluigi Donnarumma appeared confused and sluggish as Arsenal scored twice from easy crosses. PSG supporters weren’t pleased. They even questioned if he ought to remain at the club.
The way Donnarumma performs is like a coin toss: he’s invincible on heads, but he makes a lot of mistakes on tails.
The Pressure Is Real: Arsenal’s Difficult Task
It’s already challenging to play in Parc des Princes. However, having to score against a self-assured Donnarumma? That is considerably more difficult.
The fact that Donnarumma is getting better as the Champions League progresses only makes things worse. However, he continues to make major mistakes in Ligue 1, France’s regular division. He made another mistake during PSG’s game against Nice just last week.
He is a mystery because of his combination of huge mistakes and outstanding saves. He is referred to as world-class. Some people aren’t so certain.
Why Is Gianluigi Donnarumma So Excellent?
He stands six feet five inches tall! He blocks a lot of shots because of this. However, being large isn’t the only factor. Paul Robinson, a former England goalkeeper, said Donnarumma is also sharp.
In contrast to many goalkeepers, he takes his time. Rather, he waits while still near his goal line. He can still cover the majority of the net from there due to his size.
Trossard of Arsenal’s low shot was a prime illustration. Donnarumma saved it with one hand while waiting calmly. It was a combination of cunning, courage, and timing.
“His positioning is second to none,” Robinson remarked. This implies that Donnarumma is always aware of the ideal location.
Could He Be Replaced by PSG?
Strange as it sounds, Donnarumma may be sold by PSG this summer. He has saved them many times before, but his mistakes and poor footwork are an issue.
By distributing the ball skillfully, modern football goalkeepers contribute to the development of attacks in addition to stopping shots. That’s where Donnarumma finds it difficult. When passing, he frequently makes poor choices or gives the ball away.
PSG hasn’t made up their minds about keeping him, and his contract expires in a year. They are thinking about Lucas Chevalier, a Lille native who is 23 years old. He is regarded as France’s future star since he is speedy and has outstanding footwork.
However, Chevalier will be expensive—perhaps £50 million. Gianluigi Donnarumma might fetch between £25 and £30 million if sold. PSG must decide between sticking with the established powerhouse and taking a chance on a new one.
