Meet Matvey Safonov: The Penalty-Stopping Hero Taking PSG by Storm
Matvey Safonov emerged as Paris Saint-Germain's savior on Wednesday night. The relatively unknown Russian goalkeeper made four crucial penalty saves out of five attempts during PSG's shootout triumph over Flamengo in Wednesday's Intercontinental Cup clash.
Now 26 years old, he's achieving a significant breakthrough in Paris. Might he establish himself as PSG's primary goalkeeper?
Goalkeepers and Paris Saint-Germain haven't always formed a harmonious partnership in the French champions' recent past. Transitions are typically brief, and Gianluigi Donnarumma's move to Manchester City last summer exemplifies the Parisians' instability between the posts.
After becoming a beloved figure at the Parc des Princes following a Champions League run where he finally delivered the performances French supporters had anticipated since his 2021 summer arrival, the Italian departed for fresh challenges after contract extension negotiations stalled.
In their quest to begin a new era with French identity, symbolized by Ballon d'Or recipient Ousmane Dembélé, Paris Saint-Germain entrusted their goalkeeping duties to Lucas Chevalier, then 23 years old at signing, a talented prospect from Lille who had already earned France caps.
Despite an encouraging beginning, highlighted by a successful penalty shootout triumph in the UEFA Super Cup versus Tottenham, the young French keeper hasn't managed to fully convince his doubters. His injury during the Monaco defeat in late November sidelined him for two fixtures. The following two matches saw him relegated to the bench as a new fan favorite emerged before his eyes.
Strong Standing in Russia
Chevalier's extended absence resulted from Safonov's impressive replacement displays. Could this signal a significant shift in the hierarchy? Only time will reveal the answer. However, currently, the Russian shot-stopper holds the upper hand.
Safonov appears poised to cement his position as Paris's number one goalkeeper. Upon his June 2024 arrival in France, he was anticipated to offer Donnarumma meaningful competition. Despite featuring in approximately 20 fixtures, the Russian felt somewhat disappointed by his limited playing opportunities.
Prior to his Parisian move, the Krasnodar-born keeper had established himself as a rising star in Russia. Regarded as one of his generation's most gifted goalkeepers, he quickly earned the captain's armband at his hometown club, FC Krasnodar, to which he maintains strong ties. Safonov became the regular goalkeeper for a national squad excluded from international competitions but continued participating in exhibition matches.
A product of Krasnodar's youth system, despite being away from Champions League attention, he remained on international scouts' radar. Luis Campos's recruitment team, PSG's sporting director, ultimately showed the greatest interest.
Swift Integration into Parisian Culture
Safonov's commanding presence (6'3", 181lbs) and playing approach align perfectly with PSG manager Luis Enrique's requirements. Exceptionally comfortable with ball distribution, a crucial attribute valued by his Spanish coach, he's also remarkably skilled with his hands, capable of producing spectacular reflex stops. Commanding and decisive in aerial situations, he earns praise with each appearance for the Parisian outfit.
Growing increasingly popular among supporters for his humble and understated demeanor away from football, he has seamlessly adjusted to Parisian living. Safonov is developing strong French language skills and has quickly embraced local culture, enjoying contemporary French music which he frequently shares across his social platforms.
His unique appearance, consistently sporting long sleeves and leggings, combined with lengthy tied-back hair and facial hair, evokes images of Alexandre Dumas' French musketeer, d'Artagnan. Some suggest this distinctive look may have contributed to his rapid integration into Parisian society.
While his connection with new Ukrainian teammate from Bournemouth, Illia Zabarnyi, has generated considerable discussion, he enjoys widespread appreciation from most squad members.
Safonov's character receives high praise from his colleagues. "He's an exceptional individual who shares laughs with everyone. We're delighted to have him among us. Both on and off the field, he's a remarkable person," teammate Nuno Mendes shared with M6 on Wednesday.
Against Flamengo, Safonov certainly earned significant recognition. He became just the second PSG goalkeeper to stop four penalties in a single shootout, following Dominique Baratelli in the 1982 French Cup semifinal. "It's my first time witnessing such a performance," Luis Enrique commented during the post-match press conference. This achievement could elevate his status to new heights in Paris.
While the Spanish manager may avoid addressing questions regarding the competition with Lucas Chevalier, the battle now appears to favor the Russian goalkeeper.