PSG Goalkeeper Chevalier Faces Media Backlash Over Political Allegations

Hours before Paris Saint-Germain’s match against Lyon, goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier awoke to a media frenzy. A screenshot circulating on social media revealed that he had liked a post from former MP Julien Aubert, which was perceived as an endorsement of the National Rally, a far-right party often accused of xenophobia. This revelation led to a storm of criticism online, with fans accusing him of aligning with extremist politics, while others defended him as a victim of cancel culture.

The timing of the controversy was particularly unfortunate for Chevalier, who has been working to win over the Parisian crowd after taking over from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Instead of being recognized for his athletic performance, he found himself cast as a political symbol. In a club known for its multicultural identity, the immediate backlash was significant; supporters from the Collectif Ultras Paris, who uphold anti-racist values, condemned his actions, while some called for his dismissal.

In an attempt to manage the situation, PSG’s management quickly shifted focus to the upcoming match against Lyon. However, the uproar had already reverberated through the dressing room, casting a shadow over the game itself.

At around 4 a.m., a visibly exhausted and angry Chevalier took to Instagram to address the situation.

“I have seen what has been said about me regarding my liking a political post on Instagram, which I do not support,” he stated. “It is disheartening to realize that a mere accidental action can tarnish my image. You attempted to portray me as a fascist, not just targeting me but my entire family.”

Chevalier further expressed his frustration at being reduced to a political caricature.

“I refuse to play the victim, but the boundaries have been crossed. Some are using this incident to justify my sporting shortcomings without any understanding of the goalkeeper’s role. These are the same individuals who have enjoyed my struggles from the start. I apologize for the inconvenience this has caused, as I am responsible for my actions. I strive to be a good person both on and off the pitch and will continue to do so. Today, I felt it necessary to speak out because our world is becoming increasingly chaotic.

“I never thought I would have to explain myself over such a ludicrous matter on social media.”

As the story gained traction, the backlash intensified. Chevalier was subjected to personal insults online, with hate messages flooding his accounts. Interestingly, far-right politician Eric Ciotti defended him, condemning the attacks as “unbearable,” which only exacerbated the controversy and ignited discussions about double standards and the toxic intersection of sports and ideology.

While many fans called for restraint, prominent commentators reminded the public that “a like is not a manifesto” and that context matters. Yet, in an age of instant outrage, nuance often comes too late.

On the pitch, the night was equally unforgiving for Chevalier. During PSG’s 3-2 victory over Lyon, he was blamed for two goals—one from Afonso Moreira’s counterattack and another from Ainsley Maitland-Niles’s lob—mistakes that reignited concerns about his form. Despite making several critical saves, his shaky performance heightened pressure on him.

Teammates like Lucas Hernandez publicly supported Chevalier, insisting that defensive lapses, rather than solely goalkeeping errors, contributed to the team’s struggles. However, by this point, Chevalier’s image crisis had become a defining subplot of PSG’s season.

As PSG prepares for upcoming matches against Le Havre, Monaco, Rennes, and Tottenham in the Champions League, Chevalier faces a challenge that transcends his role between the posts. He must not only regain confidence in his abilities as a goalkeeper but also reaffirm his integrity as a professional.