Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has described Gianluigi Donnarumma as the best goalkeeper in the world, praising the Manchester City shot-stopper’s quality and revealing the close friendship they share ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League meeting.
Donnarumma joined City from PSG last summer after helping the French club secure their first Champions League title. The Italian goalkeeper will now come up against his former teammates at the Etihad Stadium, with Dembele among those looking forward to the reunion.
Speaking at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner made his admiration for Donnarumma clear, highlighting his ability to influence matches with decisive saves.
“I’ve got a really excellent relationship and memory of him. He’s the number one in the world. Exceptional goalkeeper,” Dembele said.
“I wasn’t able to attend his wedding in the summer but we exchanged messages. He’s a great friend and great goalkeeper.”
Dembele Praises Donnarumma’s Match-Winning Ability
Dembele believes Donnarumma offers more than reliable goalkeeping, insisting his performances can have a significant impact on an entire team.
“He can change an entire team with his saves,” the PSG forward added.
The pair have shared memorable moments on the pitch, including an international encounter in which Donnarumma denied Dembele an opportunity to score.
“I missed a chance against him when we played against Italy in the international break and he made fun of me a little bit,” Dembele recalled.
Despite the friendly teasing, the French forward was unequivocal in his assessment of the Italian’s ability, stressing that Donnarumma had already demonstrated his quality before joining PSG.
“He’s a wonderful goalkeeper and he showed that even before he came to PSG.”
Donnarumma’s move to Manchester City has now set up an emotionally significant meeting with his former club, where he established himself as a key figure during their rise to European success.
PSG Ready for Manchester City Challenge
While Dembele’s comments highlighted his personal connection with Donnarumma, the PSG forward also turned his attention to the challenge awaiting the French champions at the Etihad Stadium.
City have made an impressive start to their Premier League and Champions League campaigns, earning the respect of their opponents ahead of the encounter.
Dembele acknowledged the quality of Maresca’s side and the challenge they pose, while insisting PSG are preparing to compete for all three points.
“It’s a big game obviously. Very good team, very good coach,” he said.
“It won’t be easy but we’ll be well prepared for the game.”
The forward made it clear that PSG are approaching the fixture with a winning mentality, even if the result will not determine their entire European campaign.
“We’ll try to take all three points home. It’s not decisive but it’s one we want to win. We know what to expect from them.”
Dembele also recognised the strength of City’s early-season performances across domestic and European competition.
“Manchester City are one of the top teams and they’ve got off to a flying start in the Premier League and Champions League.”
A Reunion With Extra Significance
Wednesday’s fixture carries added interest because of Donnarumma’s return to face the club he represented before moving to England.
For Dembele, the encounter will bring him up against a goalkeeper he considers both a close friend and the best in the world. For PSG, however, the focus will be on overcoming a formidable opponent and maintaining their own ambitions in the Champions League.
With City’s strong start and PSG’s determination to secure a positive result, the meeting promises a demanding test for both sides, while Donnarumma’s reunion with his former teammates adds another compelling storyline to the European contest.
