Gianluigi Donnarumma is confident Pep Guardiola will improve his footwork at Manchester City. He acknowledges criticism but is determined to prove himself. City faces Napoli in the Champions League, a significant match for Donnarumma, who has ties to the area and whose mother supports Napoli. The game will also feature former City player Kevin De Bruyne.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, the new Manchester City goalkeeper, has expressed his confidence that manager Pep Guardiola will significantly improve his ball-playing abilities. The Italian international, who arrived from Paris Saint-Germain for approximately £30 million (€35 million) on transfer deadline day, is eager to hone his skills under the tutelage of one of the world's most renowned coaches. Donnarumma's arrival at the Etihad Stadium raised eyebrows among some observers, who questioned whether the 26-year-old possesses the same level of comfort and expertise with his feet as his predecessors, Ederson (who departed for Fenerbahce) and James Trafford (the £27 million acquisition from Burnley in July). However, Donnarumma is determined to prove his doubters wrong and believes that Guardiola is the perfect mentor to help him achieve his full potential.
During a recent press conference, Donnarumma addressed the criticism surrounding his ball-playing skills, stating, "I always try to improve, and I am with a coach who is the best in these situations – he will help me, and we can do lots together." The Italian goalkeeper emphasized the importance of reading the game and making informed decisions based on the specific circumstances. "You have to sniff out danger and read certain moments in a match," he explained. "There are moments you can play, and moments where it is better to kick it long, especially if you have a difficult situation in a final."
Donnarumma was also asked whether Guardiola's Manchester City side would maintain their characteristic style of play with him in goal, despite his perceived weaknesses in distribution. "Definitely," he affirmed. "The preparation for each game is different; each team has a way of defending and attacking, so he will prepare us in the best way possible." This suggests that Guardiola has a clear plan to integrate Donnarumma into his system and adapt the team's tactics to suit the goalkeeper's strengths while simultaneously addressing his areas for improvement.
Prior to his move to Manchester City, Donnarumma enjoyed a successful spell with Paris Saint-Germain, culminating in a Champions League title last season. However, he was also part of the PSG team that suffered a defeat to Chelsea in the Club World Cup final in July. Reflecting on his transfer to City, Donnarumma revealed that the club's interest in him predated the summer window. "Before summer, I knew City were very interested in me," he said. "The relationship strengthened after the Club World Cup. I knew the coach was pushing for my arrival, and it spurred me on."
PSG's decision to put him up for sale came after Luis Enrique secured the services of Lucas Chevalier from Lille, leaving Donnarumma's future uncertain. When asked about the somewhat turbulent summer he experienced, particularly in light of claims by PSG's strategic advisor, Luís Campos, that his new contract demands foreshadowed his departure, Donnarumma responded, "I don't really like to talk about the past. Some people make their own decisions and choices; it is part of football. My desire was to come here. That was my first and only option. My only choice was to come here."
Looking ahead, Manchester City is set to host Napoli in their opening Champions League group game on Thursday. For Donnarumma, this match holds special significance, as he hails from the Naples area and was a Napoli supporter in his youth. Adding to the intrigue, his mother remains an ardent Napoli fan. "My mum is having a few issues – I am hoping she will be on my side," he quipped, acknowledging the divided loyalties within his family.
Meanwhile, Antonio Conte's Napoli side is expected to feature several familiar faces, including former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, Rasmus Højlund (who is currently on loan from United), and Kevin De Bruyne, a player widely regarded as one of City's all-time greats, who departed the club during the summer transfer window. De Bruyne has enjoyed a stellar start to his Serie A career, scoring two goals in three appearances. Guardiola was asked about De Bruyne's impressive form in Italy, to which he responded, "Players at that level adapt so quick. He has incredible talent – his vision, passing, and goals in the final third. He is unique. After the game, yes [it will be nice to see him] – it’s nice to have him back." The upcoming clash between Manchester City and Napoli promises to be a captivating encounter, with Donnarumma's quest to improve his footwork under Guardiola adding an extra layer of intrigue to the contest.