'Don’t Think You Remember How Many Years You Criticised...': Luis Enrique Backs New Keeper Ahead Of Leverkusen Clash

Last Updated:October 21, 2025, 12:18 IST

Lucas Chevalier, who joined from Lille, has started the season as first choice keeper following the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left for Man City in the summer.

PSG head coach Luis Enrique (X)

PSG boss Luis Enrique backed goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen in, expressing confidence in the shot stopper.

The 22-year-old Chevalier, who joined from Lille, has started the campaign as first choice ahead of Russian Matvei Safonov following the departure of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who left for Man City.

“For me he’s one of the best options, if not the best," Enrique said.

“He has shown personality. When you are the PSG goalkeeper, you have to learn to live with the criticism," the Spaniard added.

“I like Lucas’s mentality and the level he’s showing. We are very confident he’ll be important for years to come," Enrique continued.

Enrique also reflected on former keeper Donnarumma, who played a crucial role in PSG’s maiden UCL title after enduring early criticism.

“I think you don’t remember how many years you criticised Gigio Donnarumma. For four years, you killed him sportingly," Enrique added.

“We’re looking for the same thing as last season: to get as many points as possible in what is a very difficult league phase," Enrique said.

“We’re happy to have won our first two matches, but tomorrow will be a different kind of test."

Ballon d’or winner Ousmane Dembele will return to the Parisian fold and Enrique expressed his delight with the forward’s addition to the unit.

The Spanish coach also welcomed back Ousmane Dembele, brushing off talk about the forward having won the Ballon d’Or.

“You’re very preoccupied with the Ballon d’Or. It’s Ousmane Dembele, not the Ballon d’Or. We’re happy to have him back."

PSG have had to endure a challenging start to the French top-flight, but their triumph over Barcelona will serve as a confidence booster.

“We’ve shown resilience. Tomorrow is important because the sooner we win points, the better," the 55-year-old added.

Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand, who helms Leverkusen now after the departure of Erik ten Hag, have undergone major changes.

“It’s hard to know what to expect. They’ve brought in 20 players, and they can press high or sit deep. We have to be ready for everything," Enrique said.

PSG stand third in the UCL table with six points, behind Manchester City and Real Madrid.

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