Safonov's outspoken interview ruffled PSG's feathers, fueling exit rumors. Discover if the Russian keeper's future lies in Paris or elsewhere.
Substitute for a Lucas Chevalier who is far from being irreproachable since his arrival, Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov saw a close associate of his bring up his case in the Russian press. He rejected the idea of a departure in January but explained that Safonov's recent statements had not pleased PSG.
Although he has not played a single minute this season, while Luis Enrique had him play 17 matches last season, Safonov, 26, is in the news.
Lucas Chevalier has had several matches with mixed performance, and the substitute goalkeeper is a solution considered by some. For now, his coach does not share that opinion, wishing to give Chevalier time to adapt quietly to his new context.
Safonov's Russia Interview Rubbed PSG the Wrong Way
During his time in Russia on the occasion of the last international break, Safonov had confided to the local media Sport-Express that he was waiting for his future: "My future will have to wait for the opening of the transfer market. For now, I dedicate all my time to straightening the course. I want to demonstrate that I deserve to play; the lack of playing time does not satisfy me. (...) Any offer must be studied, so everything depends on the situation at the time of the market."
His statements caused a stir in Russia, as the goalkeeper is the only local currently in a major European club. But his words were not appreciated within PSG, according to a person close to the player contacted by the same media Sport-Express: "PSG was not happy with Matvey's interview about his playing time."
But while some sources had mentioned a possible sanction following this interview, this was denied by the same source in Russia: "The club will not take any sanction against Safonov. No fine or anything."
PSG has also not wished to comment on the recent reports from L'Equipe about a possible departure during the winter, with the French media claiming that Safonov now confided in private that he was ready to leave, disappointed by the total absence of competition for his position.
While a possible return to Russia was being mentioned for the winter transfer window, the denial came in the columns of Sport-Express: "Matvey has no intention of leaving PSG."