PSG’s Donnarumma to Sit Out Toulouse Match for Rest

PARIS, France — Gianluigi Donnarumma will not participate in Paris Saint-Germain‘s upcoming match against Toulouse on Saturday, as confirmed by coach Luis Enrique. This decision comes as the Italian goalkeeper, aged 25, takes a rest before the critical Champions League playoff against Brest next Wednesday.

Donnarumma, who has made 70 appearances for the Italian national team, has been a key player for PSG this season. However, with the team holding a 10-point lead over second-placed Marseille in Ligue 1, Enrique is opting to rotate his squad strategically. The match against Toulouse serves as a preparatory step for the more significant clash against Brest.

“It’s purely a strategic decision,” said a source close to the team. “Donnarumma has been performing well, but resting him now is essential considering the busy schedule ahead.”

The absence of Donnarumma from the squad has sparked mixed reactions among fans. Some supporters agree with Enrique’s decision, viewing it as a necessary precaution, while others voice concerns regarding the goalkeeper’s recent form and the implications of his rest.

“I just hope he remains sharp,” commented a concerned fan on social media. “We need our best players ready for the Champions League.”

In Donnarumma’s place, young goalkeeper Louis Mouquet has been called up, joining Matvey Safonov and Arnau Tenas in competing for the starting role. Historically, Safonov has frequently replaced Donnarumma, with Tenas seeing limited playtime this season.

Alongside Donnarumma, PSG will also miss midfielder Warren Zaïre-Emery, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury, while Ibrahim Mbaye returns from training but will not feature in this match. Despite these absences, Enrique can count on a solid supporting cast of seasoned players for the 22nd round of Ligue 1.

Georgia international Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who did not start their previous Champions League match, is expected to be part of the lineup against Toulouse. This match represents a chance for him to build chemistry with his teammates as PSG looks to maintain their dominance at the top of the league.