Former Soviet Union goalkeeper Anzor Kavazashvili has welcomed Matvey Safonov’s inclusion among the world’s leading goalkeepers, saying the Paris Saint-Germain player’s 10th-place finish in ESPN’s ranking is a fair reflection of his progress.
Kavazashvili described the decision to place Safonov 10th as “fair and correct”, while also expressing his satisfaction that the Russian goalkeeper had managed to establish himself at one of Europe’s strongest clubs.
Safonov’s recognition comes after a challenging period in which he has had to compete for his position at Paris Saint-Germain. According to Kavazashvili, the goalkeeper has succeeded despite those difficulties and has shown that he can perform at the highest level in an extremely competitive European environment.
The former Soviet Union international said it was particularly encouraging to see a Russian goalkeeper win that competition within such a prominent European team. His assessment reflects the significance of Safonov’s position in ESPN’s list, which places him among the best goalkeepers in world football.
Safonov has now won nine titles during his spell with Paris Saint-Germain, which has lasted more than two years. That run of success has added weight to the view that he has become an important part of one of Europe’s leading clubs.
The recognition from ESPN gives further prominence to Safonov’s achievements at Paris Saint-Germain. Kavazashvili’s comments underline the importance of the ranking, as well as the goalkeeper’s ability to maintain his place in a demanding squad while competing at the highest level.
The next match for Luis Enrique’s team is scheduled for 23 August, when Paris Saint-Germain will face Rennes. Safonov’s progress and his standing within the squad will remain part of the focus around the team as it continues its campaign.
For Kavazashvili, the central point is that Safonov is no longer being judged only as a Russian goalkeeper attempting to make his way in European football. His results at Paris Saint-Germain and his place in ESPN’s ranking have placed him in wider discussions about the leading players in his position.
The 10th-place ranking therefore represents both an individual acknowledgement of Safonov and a notable moment for Russian football. Kavazashvili believes the goalkeeper’s ability to overcome difficulties, compete successfully at Paris Saint-Germain and collect nine titles in more than two years provides a sound basis for that recognition.