Former Barcelona and Brazil player Rivaldo has given his view on whether Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Matvey Safonov could become a Ballon d’Or winner.
The Russian goalkeeper joined the French club in the summer of 2024 and remains under contract with Paris Saint-Germain until the summer of 2029. His current market value is estimated at €30m.
Safonov has made three Ligue 1 appearances this season, conceding six goals. Those figures form the latest backdrop to the discussion about whether he could eventually be considered for football’s most prestigious individual award.
Rivaldo, who won the Ballon d’Or during his playing career, was asked about Safonov’s prospects and about which Russian footballers might have the potential to claim the prize. The former Barcelona and Brazil international addressed the question in relation to the 27-year-old goalkeeper’s position at Paris Saint-Germain.
Safonov’s move to the French club represented a significant step in his career. Since arriving in France, he has been part of the Paris Saint-Germain squad while competing for opportunities in Ligue 1. His long-term contract indicates the club’s commitment to retaining him through to 2029.
The goalkeeper’s current season has so far included three league matches and six goals conceded. His market valuation, meanwhile, stands at €30m.
The Ballon d’Or is awarded to an individual player, meaning goalkeepers face the same scrutiny as outfield players while competing for recognition at the highest level. Rivaldo’s comments therefore place attention on whether Safonov could develop from a highly valued Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper into a contender for the game’s leading individual honour.
Safonov is identified in the discussion as the Russian player at the centre of the question. The article does not provide a detailed breakdown of Rivaldo’s assessment beyond his comments on whether the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper can win the Ballon d’Or.
For now, the confirmed details surrounding Safonov are his move to Paris Saint-Germain in summer 2024, his contract running until summer 2029, his three Ligue 1 appearances this season and the six goals he has conceded. His estimated market value is €30m.
Rivaldo’s intervention brings those details into the wider debate over Russian footballers and the Ballon d’Or. Safonov’s position at Paris Saint-Germain and his long-term agreement with the club provide the basis for that discussion, while his performances in Ligue 1 remain the latest reference point in assessing his current standing.