June 15, (THEWILL)- Paris Saint-Germain have signed Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov from Krasnodar on a five-year contract in a highly controversial move. The French champions announced the deal on Friday, more than two years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to sanctions against Russian athletes and a ban on Russian teams in European football competitions.
The 25-year-old Safonov expressed his delight at joining one of the biggest clubs in world football. “I’m really happy to be joining Paris Saint-Germain, one of the world’s biggest clubs in terms of its history and what it has won,” he said. “I can’t wait to meet my new teammates, defend my new colours, and make the fans proud. Allez Paris!”
PSG’s decision to sign a Russian player from a Russian top-flight club has drawn criticism from various quarters, with many questioning the timing and appropriateness of the move. However, the club has defended its stance, stating that it is committed to providing opportunities to talented players regardless of their nationality.
The acquisition of Safonov is seen as a strategic move by PSG to bolster their goalkeeping ranks. With incumbent goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma facing an uncertain future, the French giants are believed to be exploring options to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.