In a blockbuster transfer that sent shockwaves through the football world, Gianluigi Donnarumma, the towering Italian goalkeeper, has joined Manchester City from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported €30-35 million. The 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the finest shot-stoppers in the game, signed a five-year contract with the Premier League giants, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career. Speaking at a press conference from Italy’s training base in Coverciano, Donnarumma couldn’t hide his excitement about the move, particularly the chance to work with Pep Guardiola, one of football’s greatest managers. “Honestly, I couldn’t wait to go to Man City, because they really wanted me, because Guardiola really wanted me,” he said, beaming with pride. “I can only be proud to have arrived at a club like City. I’m very happy.”
Donnarumma’s transfer, finalized on deadline day, comes after a stellar four-year stint at PSG, where he played a pivotal role in their 2025 Champions League triumph. Despite his success, PSG manager Luis Enrique made the surprising decision to replace him with Lille’s Lucas Chevalier, signaling a shift in the club’s goalkeeping philosophy. Donnarumma, however, harbors no resentment. “I’ve always had an excellent relationship with the coach. He was direct with me from the very first days of training camp,” he noted, reflecting on Enrique’s transparency. “Everyone makes their own choices, so I’m not disappointed about anything. Feeling the affection of my teammates, of everyone around, and of the stadium moved me a lot.” His emotional farewell at the Parc des Princes, where fans gave him a rapturous send-off, underscored the legacy he left behind in Paris.
The move to Manchester City fulfills a long-standing connection with Guardiola, who first praised Donnarumma as a teenager at AC Milan nearly a decade ago. “Pep wanted me there and I can only feel proud about that,” Donnarumma said, recalling the manager’s persistent interest. The transfer, which saw City outmaneuver interest from Chelsea and others, represents a strategic coup for the club, especially as it coincides with Ederson’s departure to Galatasaray. At 6ft 5ins, Donnarumma brings a commanding presence to the Etihad, with over 400 senior appearances for Milan and PSG, plus a European Championship title with Italy in 2021. “To be wanted so strongly by the best club in the world makes me proud, but also very emotional and happy,” he added, emphasizing the significance of joining a squad led by a manager he considers “one of the greatest in the history of football.”
Questions linger about Donnarumma’s fit in Guardiola’s system, which demands goalkeepers excel in ball-playing roles. Critics have pointed to his occasional struggles with distribution, a contrast to Ederson’s pinpoint long balls. Yet Donnarumma is confident he can adapt. “I always try to help the team and do what the coach asks of me. I do everything; you can always improve in everything,” he said. “I’m sure that with Guardiola we’ll do a great job.” His world-class shot-stopping, evidenced by his heroics in PSG’s Champions League run, is expected to shine, and Guardiola’s coaching prowess could elevate his technical game to new heights.
The transfer also carries personal significance for Donnarumma, who requested to sign his contract in Italy, believing it brought him luck in the past. “I asked the president to sign here, because it had brought me luck before,” he said with a laugh, exuding calm confidence. His arrival at City, where he’ll wear the No. 25 shirt, comes at a critical juncture for the club, with young goalkeeper James Trafford’s recent errors highlighting the need for a reliable No. 1. Donnarumma’s debut could come in the Manchester derby on September 14, a high-pressure stage to showcase his credentials.
As he prepares for international duty with Italy, facing Estonia and Israel in World Cup qualifiers under new coach Gennaro Gattuso, Donnarumma remains focused on his goals. “I’m proud to be coached by Guardiola, who has won so much and is one of the best in the world,” he said, expressing his desire to improve and achieve “big satisfactions.” His move to City, driven by Guardiola’s belief in his potential, marks a fresh start for a goalkeeper determined to cement his legacy. With the Premier League’s brightest lights awaiting, Donnarumma’s journey at the Etihad promises to be one of the season’s most compelling narratives.
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