Gianluigi Donnarumma trial disrupted by courtroom outburst

The trial over the violent home-jacking involving Gianluigi Donnarumma was disrupted in Paris after one of the accused men launched an aggressive confrontation with police inside the courtroom. The proceedings concern the Manchester City goalkeeper, who was playing for Paris Saint-Germain when the incident occurred.

Three men are standing trial at the Paris criminal court over the events of the night of July 20-21, 2023. Prosecutors accuse them of aggravated theft, short-term unlawful detention and criminal conspiracy. The alleged break-in took place at Donnarumma’s apartment on Avenue Montaigne, where he was held and his partner, Alessia Elefante, was assaulted. She was pregnant at the time and later suffered a miscarriage.

Ilyas Kherbouch, described as the suspected organiser and aged 21 at the time of the hearing, directed a stream of abuse at officers after speaking with a brother without permission. His lawyers sought to have the hearing held behind closed doors, but the request was rejected. The presiding judge warned him that his conduct was unacceptable and urged him to remain for the proceedings. He replied that he did not want to attend the trial.

The hearing is due to continue on Friday. The three defendants, who were adults when the alleged offences took place, face sentences of up to 20 years because of suspected repeat offending. Donnarumma has since left PSG for Manchester City in a €30 million transfer during the 2025-26 season.