Reasons for Safonov's Increased Playing Time in France

French journalist Daniel Riolo explained Matvey Safonov's appearance in Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) starting lineup for four consecutive matches with two possible reasons. According to Riolo, the Russian goalkeeper has been exhibiting better performance than Lucas Chevalier during training sessions and could also be mentally more stable than his teammate.

“Something seems to be happening during the training sessions. Apparently, Chevalier is not showing a high level there.

He is in a state of psychological decline, disheartened since the start of the season, and entirely ineffective,” Riolo said on RMC Sport’s After Foot program. Safonov played in Ligue 1 matches against Rennes and Metz, a UEFA Champions League game against Spanish team Athletic, and the FIFA Club World Cup final against Brazil's Flamengo.

In these four games, he conceded three goals and, in the final, saved four consecutive penalty kicks in the shootout against Flamengo. PSG head coach Luis Enrique, however, did not give a definitive answer when asked if Safonov would now become the team's primary goalkeeper.

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