Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League Journey: A New Era Begins

In a recent statement, Gianluigi Donnarumma, the new hero of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), hinted at a shift within the team dynamics. „The spirit has changed among us. We are now playing much more as a team, supporting one another,“ he remarked after PSG’s semi-final victory over Arsenal.

This season, PSG has made a significant transformation from being the biggest spenders in European football to a strong contender for the Champions League title, set to face Inter Milan in the final on May 31 in Munich.

Since 2011, the French champions and their Qatari owners have pursued the coveted trophy with determination. However, this year appears to present their best opportunity yet, following the departure of superstars like Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé, who moved to Real Madrid in 2024.

Expressing excitement for the upcoming match against Inter, Donnarumma noted, „I am looking forward to challenging many of my national teammates; it will be thrilling.“ He acknowledged the difficulty of facing Inter but remains optimistic about the encounter.

At just 26 years old, Donnarumma has already experienced more in his career than many seasoned professionals. He debuted in Serie A at 16 and joined the national team at 17. Fans of AC Milan often regard him as a traitor for his lucrative move to PSG, and he faced personal challenges, including a robbery incident at his home in Paris in summer 2023.

Despite past criticisms, including mistakes during crucial games, Donnarumma’s stellar performances against Arsenal have changed perceptions. Arsenal’s coach, Mikel Arteta, remarked, „If you look at who was the best player on the pitch in both games, it was their goalkeeper.“

Rumors had circulated about Donnarumma potentially leaving PSG for Inter Milan this summer, but he clarified, „It depends on the club. If PSG wants me to stay, I will. We just need to sign the new contract, but it’s up to the club.“

Donnarumma represents a new generation for PSG, alongside top talents like 19-year-old Désiré Doué and 20-year-old João Neves, as well as high-profile signings like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Among the squad that lost the 2020 Champions League final to Bayern Munich, only captain Marquinhos remains. He mentioned, „Disappointments give you experience,“ reflecting on past defeats in the knockout stages against teams like Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, and FC Barcelona. Marquinhos believes the team now has a „new plan,“ a fresh mentality, and is prepared for the challenges ahead.