Gianlugi Donnarumma
Gianluigi Donnarumma has officially joined Manchester City, marking a significant move in his career after his departure from Paris Saint-Germain. The 26-year-old goalkeeper was prompted to seek a new challenge following his exclusion from PSG’s Super Cup squad, signaling a shift in his role within the team. His transfer to City represents not only a fresh start but also aligns with his aspirations in the Champions League.
Gianluigi Donnarumma said: “I think the Champions League is the best trophy for a football player. It was an indescribable emotion. We have the game against Napoli, which is a difficult one, however all games are difficult. Napoli have a strong team. I know them, I have a lot of friends there, however there are no easy games in the Champions League. We have to think game by game and give it all we’ve got until the end and give 110%. I hope to get as far as possible in the Champions League, but now we have to think match after match and then at the end we will see where we get to.”
Donnarumma continued: “It is one of our goals I’m not going to hide it. Lifting the Champions League trophy with City would be a dream for me. It is one of our goals. However, like I said, we have to work calmly and hard and we have to think game by game, like I said. But together with the coach and the staff, I am convinced we will be able to go far. But now we have to work humbly and think game by game.”
Donnarumma’s arrival at Manchester City concludes their summer transfer activity, with the club’s total spending reaching £185.8 million. He steps in to replace Ederson, who recently transferred to Fenerbahce. The Italian international expressed his excitement and pride in joining a club he described as having a familial atmosphere.
“I’m very excited,” Donnarumma said about the move. “I came here with all my family and this my first day at the club and my first emotions are that it looks like a real family – everyone is smiling and I’m just happy and proud and I can’t wait this new adventure. I’m really proud to be here at one of the best clubs in the world – they have been trying to sign me, so everything’s been easier and I’m very excited to be here.”
He added: “This is a club with a lot of history behind it and is hungry for victory. I know there is a lot of responsibility, but I’m proud to help the club continue winning together. Playing in the Premier League with Manchester City is a great emotion for me and I’m ready for this challenge. I’ve always dreamt about playing in the Premier League, as it’s the best league in the world.”
Donnarumma’s enthusiasm extends to working under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, a manager whose reputation precedes him. The goalkeeper acknowledged the privilege of being coached by someone of Guardiola’s caliber, emphasizing the pride he felt in being wanted by such a successful figure in football.
Donnarumma admitted: “I think his history speaks for itself. The fact that he wanted me here is a reason to be proud of. It’s an indescribable emotion. Being coached by him I think is the best for a football player.”
With Donnarumma’s addition, Manchester City aims to bolster their squad as they prepare for the upcoming Champions League campaign. The club and its new goalkeeper share a common goal: to achieve success on the European stage.