Donnarumma Expresses Enthusiasm for Manchester City Move
Gianluigi Donnarumma has stated that Manchester City was the "only option" he desired this summer, and he already feels deeply integrated into the club.
The goalkeeper was considered surplus to requirements by Paris Saint-Germain's manager, Luis Enrique, and made the switch to City on transfer deadline day for £26 million.
This move came despite Donnarumma's significant contributions to PSG, where he helped the team secure three trophies last season, including the Champions League.
"I was very clear; my desire was to come here. That was my only option, the only thing I wanted," Donnarumma remarked. "My only choice was to come here, so I am happy to be at City and part of this fantastic team."
"Before the summer, I knew that City was very interested in me, and our relationship strengthened after the Club World Cup. I was aware that the coach was advocating for my arrival, and everyone wanted me here. It filled me with pride to see such a demonstration of affection; I didn’t hesitate to come with great joy and enthusiasm."
The 26-year-old made an impressive debut in the Premier League, keeping a clean sheet during a 3-0 victory over Manchester United. He received warm embraces from teammates, including Erling Haaland, after executing a remarkable save against Bryan Mbeumo.
Donnarumma praised Haaland, saying, "Aside from being a fantastic player, one of the best in the world, if not the best, he is also a wonderful person. That makes him even better. I have an incredible relationship with him; he welcomed me immediately. It feels as though I have been here for many years due to the warm welcome I received."
He emphasized the importance of team unity, stating, "The behavior of a team should be like a family. When a teammate saves a goal, we should all celebrate as if it were a goal scored by the team. That is crucial for me; we must all be united. The result against United was significant for our progression."
Family Ties for Donnarumma
Donnarumma, who hails from a province near Naples, is set to face his hometown club, Napoli, in the Champions League on Thursday at 20:00 BST.
He joined AC Milan at the age of 14 and made his debut two years later, becoming the third-youngest goalkeeper to start a match in Italy's top league. After over 250 appearances for the Rossoneri, he transferred to PSG on a free transfer in 2021, where he won four league titles, the European Cup, and two French Cups.
As he prepares for the match against the Serie A champions, coached by former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte, Donnarumma acknowledges the challenge ahead. "I have strong ties to Napoli; I have many friends and family living there," he said. "I am very excited about Thursday's match. I would be even more excited if it were in Napoli. My mother has been facing some health issues, but I hope she will be by my side."