Monaco defender Wilfried Singo has publicly apologised following a dangerous challenge during a French league match that left PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma with significant facial injuries. The incident occurred in the 17th minute of PSG's 4-2 victory over Monaco on Wednesday, during which Singo, attempting to hurdle over Donnarumma after the goalkeeper had blocked his shot, accidentally struck him in the face with his studs. The force of the blow caused multiple cuts and visible trauma just below Donnarumma’s right eye, leaving the 24-year-old goalkeeper bloodied and in visible distress.
The collision, which immediately required Donnarumma to receive medical treatment on the field, sparked widespread concern. After the incident, Singo took to social media to express his remorse for the unfortunate event, clarifying that the challenge was not intentional. "My gesture was obviously not intentional, but I was able to see afterwards that he had a significant injury to his face," Singo wrote in both French and Italian. "I wish you a good recovery." Despite Singo's apology, the incident became the subject of much debate, especially after images of Donnarumma’s injuries spread across social media, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.
At the time of the challenge, Singo was issued a yellow card for the dangerous tackle, and while some called for a more severe punishment, the officials on the pitch deemed the collision to be accidental, and Singo was allowed to continue playing. The decision to not issue a red card, despite the severity of the injury, raised questions about the consistency and fairness of officiating in such situations. Nonetheless, the match continued, and PSG had to adjust to life without their star goalkeeper for the rest of the game.
Donnarumma was replaced by backup goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, who stepped in during what was already a highly competitive encounter. PSG confirmed in a statement that Donnarumma had suffered "a facial trauma with multiple wounds" and would undergo further medical assessments to determine the full extent of the injury. Despite the setback of losing their first-choice goalkeeper early in the match, PSG's players showed resilience. The team fought back from a 2-1 deficit in the second half, with Gonçalo Ramos scoring the equalizer and Ousmane Dembélé adding a brace to secure a 4-2 victory, which extended PSG’s unbeaten streak to 16 matches in Ligue 1.
After the match, PSG manager Luis Enrique praised his team for their ability to fight back. "The objective was achieved. It was a difficult match, we weren't up to par at all times, but they knew how to come back and take the lead," he said. "I'm happy with the result." With this victory, PSG extended their lead atop the Ligue 1 standings to 10 points, having amassed 40 points so far this season. Olympique de Marseille and Monaco, who are both on 30 points, are trailing in second and third place, with Marseille holding a game in hand.
While the result cemented PSG’s dominance in the league, the health and recovery of Gianluigi Donnarumma remain a significant concern. The goalkeeper’s condition could have serious implications for the team as they head into the Christmas break, with the club looking to maintain their form in the second half of the season. The club has yet to announce a timeline for his return to action, but the injury certainly casts a shadow over PSG's otherwise commanding performance in the league. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the club will be hoping for Donnarumma's swift recovery and return to full fitness.
