Gianluigi Donnarumma, the 26-year-old Italian goalkeeper who was invited to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer and signed for Manchester City on the final day of the transfer window, held a press conference this Wednesday during his national team’s training camp. He spoke about his feelings towards Parisian coach Luis Enrique and his unusual summer.
Donnarumma: “I appreciated his honesty with me.”
“The truth is that in recent days I’ve felt the effects of my situation, but I’ve continued to train well. Honestly, I was looking forward to going to Manchester City because they really wanted me, because Guardiola really wanted me. I can only be proud to have arrived at a club like City. I’m very happy.”
Luis Enrique?
I’ve always had an excellent relationship with him. I appreciated his honesty with me.
Donnarumma: “I’ll never forget them.” »
Disappointed?
I don’t know; it’s every coach’s right to make their own decisions. The support of my teammates made me understand what I brought to PSG, and that’s the most important thing. Beyond football, that’s what remains. Knowing the affection of everyone, of the entire PSG entourage, of my teammates, makes me proud.
When did Luis Enrique tell me it was over?
He told me when I returned to campus at the beginning of July. I trained, I did everything right, and I’m fine, both physically and mentally.
On the Parisian experience
Four years in Paris, I had some very good times. I’ll never forget them.”
Journalists, and perhaps some fans, were probably hoping for something a little more like a controversy. But Donnarumma avoided the whirlwind and emphasized only the positive. A fine reaction on his part, with an appreciable state of mind. We also note that Luis Enrique was certainly quite clear with his goalkeeper. This helped him cope with the situation better. We’re still a long way from the image some media outlets have tried to portray for Spain.
As for the Italian goalkeeper, he retains the great experiences he’s experienced and a very strong bond with his now former teammates. His departure shouldn’t spoil his adventure. Donnarumma will retain a great image in Paris, a status as a “legend” who won the Champions League. He now has great things to accomplish at Manchester City, an exciting adventure for the rest of his career.
