Pep Guardiola Shuts Down Talk of Meeting Donnarumma Over Behaviour Issues
Pep Guardiola has dismissed the idea of holding talks with Gianluigi Donnarumma regarding the goalkeeper’s on-field behaviour, despite the Italian already receiving four yellow cards this season.
Donnarumma, who joined Manchester City in the summer as the club’s long-term No.1, has delivered strong performances but also drawn attention for emotional interactions with match officials. His vocal reactions and confrontations have resulted in repeated cautions as he adapts to the Premier League’s officiating style.
With Donnarumma now one booking away from suspension, Manchester City are entering a delicate disciplinary situation. If he receives a fifth yellow card within the next six league matches, he will serve a mandatory one-game ban—an unwelcome setback during a congested run of domestic and European fixtures.
Such a suspension could open the door for highly rated second-choice goalkeeper James Trafford, who continues to wait for opportunities following Donnarumma’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium.
Guardiola Refuses to Intervene
Speaking after Donnarumma picked up his fourth booking during Manchester City’s match against Leeds United, Guardiola made it clear he does not believe in over-managing emotional responses, especially from experienced players.
“He will, step by step, understand things, a new league, new behaviours,” Guardiola said when asked about the keeper’s frustrations with officials.
When pressed on whether he intends to speak directly to the former PSG and AC Milan goalkeeper about calming down, the City boss simply replied, “No. He’s adult enough.”
Guardiola’s stance reflects his long-standing philosophy of placing responsibility on senior players to adapt naturally. Donnarumma, who is still only 26 but has already spent over a decade in elite football, is expected to adjust with time as he becomes more familiar with Premier League temperament and refereeing patterns.
A Balancing Act for Donnarumma
While Donnarumma’s passion and communication have been praised by teammates, his emotional outbursts have become an area of concern given the risk of suspension. With City facing pivotal matches in the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup, Guardiola will want his first-choice keeper available without disruption.
The focus now shifts to whether Donnarumma can refine his reactions, especially in high-tension moments such as set-pieces, confrontations, and officiating disputes. His track record in Serie A, Ligue 1, and international football suggests he can balance assertiveness with control.
FAQs
• Is Pep Guardiola planning to speak to Donnarumma about his yellow cards?
No. Guardiola says Donnarumma is “adult enough” and will learn naturally.
• How many yellow cards has Donnarumma received?
He has received four so far this season in the Premier League.
• What happens if he gets one more yellow card?
A fifth yellow within the next six league games leads to an automatic one-match suspension.
• Who could replace him if he’s suspended?
James Trafford, Manchester City’s No.2 goalkeeper, would likely step in.
• Is Donnarumma’s behaviour a long-term concern?
No. It is viewed as part of his adjustment to the Premier League.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola remains calm amid growing attention on Gianluigi Donnarumma’s disciplinary record, choosing not to interfere as the goalkeeper adapts to English football. While the threat of suspension looms, City trust Donnarumma’s experience and maturity to correct the issue naturally. As Manchester City navigate a demanding schedule, controlling his emotions on the pitch will be one of the keeper’s most important short-term challenges.
