Italian national team goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has finally spoken out about the highly discussed transfer saga that ended his spell at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The 26-year-old shot-stopper opened up about the exact moment when head coach Luis Enrique informed him that he was no longer part of PSG’s long-term project — a decision that ultimately pushed him toward a blockbuster transfer to Manchester City.
A Surprising Decision Despite Treble Success
Only a few months ago, Donnarumma was celebrated as one of the heroes of PSG’s historic 2024/25 season. His saves played a crucial role in helping the Parisians secure a treble of Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League. Given that achievement, very few expected PSG to part ways with their star goalkeeper so soon.
However, the French giants stunned the footballing world during the summer transfer window by signing Lucas Chevalier from Lille, signaling a shift in their goalkeeping plans. That move left Donnarumma with little choice but to look for a new challenge — and he found it in the Premier League with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.
The Crucial Pre-Season Moment
Speaking at a press conference while on international duty with Italy, Donnarumma detailed the precise moment his PSG chapter came to an end.
“I was told by Luis Enrique during the pre-season training camp that I wasn’t part of the club’s project anymore,” he explained. “There were never any problems during my training. I always worked hard with the goalkeeper coach and gave everything. But that conversation during pre-season was the turning point.”
The Italian goalkeeper admitted that the message initially came as a shock, but he appreciated Enrique’s direct and honest communication.
Respectful Relationship With Luis Enrique
Despite being the one who delivered the bad news, Enrique remains someone Donnarumma respects deeply. The Italian captain dismissed any notion of a falling-out between him and the Spanish manager.
“I’ve always had a very good relationship with the coach,” Donnarumma continued. “He was honest with me right from the start of pre-season, and I respected that. I don’t hold any grudges. That’s football — decisions have to be made, and I accept them.”
His comments reflect a level of maturity that has defined Donnarumma’s career since making his professional debut for AC Milan as a teenager.
No Regrets, Only Gratitude
When pressed further on whether he felt disappointed about PSG’s decision to move on, Donnarumma gave a measured response.
“Disappointed? I wouldn’t say that. Everyone makes their choices. A coach has the authority to decide what’s best for the team,” he said. “For me, the important thing is to leave Paris with my head held high. I gave everything I could for PSG, and I’ll always be proud of that.”
The 26-year-old also highlighted that the transparency of PSG’s management helped him move forward quickly rather than lingering in uncertainty.
Emotional Farewell and Teammates’ Support
Instead of focusing on what went wrong, Donnarumma chooses to remember the positives of his time in Paris. One of the most cherished aspects, he revealed, was the unwavering support he received from his teammates and the PSG fans.
“What touched me the most was the love I felt from everyone — my teammates, the people at the club, and the supporters in the stadium,” Donnarumma recalled. “That kind of affection is what makes me proud of what I leave behind in Paris.”
The emotional farewell now marks the beginning of a new chapter at Manchester City, where he will compete at the very highest level of English and European football.
What’s Next for Donnarumma at Manchester City?
At City, Donnarumma will be tasked with filling the gloves of Ederson, who has been rumored to be eyeing a move away from the Etihad. Guardiola values goalkeepers who are not only strong shot-stoppers but also comfortable in distribution — a trait Donnarumma has been improving steadily.
For fans of both Manchester City and Italy, the move is seen as an opportunity for Donnarumma to reaffirm himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, competing week in and week out in the Premier League and the Champions League.
ALSO READ :
