Manchester City’s new first-choice goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, has shared his excitement about his early months at the Etihad Stadium and outlined his long-term ambitions with the Premier League champions. The Italian international, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain during the final hours of the summer transfer window, has already become a central figure in Pep Guardiola’s evolving project.
Recruited under the direction of new sporting director Hugo Viana, Donnarumma’s arrival marked a new chapter in City’s goalkeeping department following the departure of Ederson. The 26-year-old was seen as the perfect fit to provide experience, leadership, and world-class quality between the posts — and his early displays have fully justified that vision.
Since his debut, Donnarumma has delivered commanding performances across multiple competitions, quickly winning over supporters and teammates alike. His dominance in the air, sharp reflexes, and vocal presence have added stability to City’s backline. Notably, he has already earned the Premier League Save of the Month award for a remarkable stop against Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo and received public praise from key players like Rodri and Bernardo Silva.
In a recent interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italy No.1 opened up about his smooth transition to life in Manchester, expressing deep appreciation for the club’s faith in him. “I feel at home at City, even though it’s only been a short time since I moved there. They wanted me firmly, made me feel important, and now they already consider me one of them,” Donnarumma said.
Reflecting on his experience working with Pep Guardiola, he added, “When you listen to him, you’re enchanted. I imagined it like this, but the reality is even better than I imagined.”
Donnarumma also made clear his intention to remain a cornerstone of the club’s future, stating, “I hope to stay in Manchester as long as possible, to have a truly unique experience.”
His comments underline a mutual long-term vision between the player and Manchester City, with both focused on building sustained success. With Guardiola’s contract running until 2027, Donnarumma appears eager to be part of the club’s next era — one built on continuity, tactical evolution, and leadership renewal.
Sources close to the club suggest that City’s coaching staff view Donnarumma as a future leadership figure within the dressing room, filling the void left by senior departures in recent transfer windows. His professionalism, mentality, and presence have reportedly made a lasting impression behind the scenes, reinforcing his importance in City’s long-term structure.
FAQ
- When did Gianluigi Donnarumma join Manchester City?
The Italian goalkeeper joined Manchester City from Paris Saint-Germain during the closing hours of the 2025 summer transfer window.
- Why did Manchester City sign Donnarumma?
City signed Donnarumma to strengthen their goalkeeping department following Ederson’s departure, aiming to add world-class experience and leadership to their squad.
- What has he said about working with Pep Guardiola?
Donnarumma described working with Guardiola as “even better than imagined,” expressing admiration for the manager’s intelligence and influence.
- How has Donnarumma performed since joining?
He has quickly impressed in all competitions, earning the Premier League Save of the Month award and praise from teammates like Rodri and Bernardo Silva.
- What are Donnarumma’s long-term plans at Manchester City?
The goalkeeper stated that he hopes to remain at Manchester City “as long as possible” and be part of the club’s ongoing project under Guardiola.
Conclusion
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival at Manchester City has already proven transformative. His comments reveal a deep sense of belonging and ambition to help shape the club’s next chapter under Pep Guardiola. With a long-term vision aligned between player and manager, City fans can expect Donnarumma to be a defining figure in the club’s pursuit of sustained success and dominance in European football.
