Donnarumma was a key player, helping PSG secure their first Champions League title last season with crucial saves during the knockout stages. However, due to contract extension disagreements and coach Luis Enrique's acquisition of Lucas Chevalier, a goalkeeper more adept with his feet, Donnarumma was unexpectedly placed on the transfer list this past summer.

Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma makes a diving save from a Marcus Rashford shot during PSG's 2-3 loss to Aston Villa at Villa Park, Birmingham, England, in the Champions League quarter-final second leg on 15/4. Photo: AFP

"Leaving a club in that manner is never pleasant; everything happened so suddenly, and I truly felt terrible", Donnarumma told Sky Italia on 21/11, reflecting on his departure from PSG three months ago. "It was heartbreaking to leave right after a season where we brought home the club's first Champions League trophy. But life has to move forward".

The Italian goalkeeper affirmed he would always cherish his fond memories with teammates and fans at PSG, considering Paris his second home. However, Donnarumma expressed disappointment and confusion regarding his former club's conduct.

"I felt betrayed, because when I first arrived, I made every effort to integrate, yet in the final months, everything completely changed", he stated. "I will never get a satisfactory answer as to why they did that, but I have to accept it. I am sad they did not handle the situation gracefully. Regardless, I remain proud of what I contributed and achieved at PSG".

Donnarumma listens as coach Luis Enrique gives instructions during a PSG training session. Photo: AFP

To date, in his professional career since the age of 16, the French capital club has been the most successful stint for the former AC Milan goalkeeper, yielding a total of 10 collective titles. Following his departure from PSG, an opportunity with Man City emerged, and Donnarumma revealed that Haaland was a crucial factor in his decision to join the Manchester club in mid-August 2025.

"Erling and I hit it off immediately; it was very natural", Donnarumma said about the Norwegian forward he calls "the alien". "Even when we were opponents, we stayed in touch and often chatted after matches. When the door opened, he texted me, constantly urging me to join Man City, and I am truly grateful to him. Erling is a very good friend, calm, and family-oriented. It's fortunate we are now teammates, because it would be terrible to face him".

Goalkeeper Donnarumma celebrates with forward Haaland after Man City's 3-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, in the 11th round of the Premier League. Photo: Reuters

In his time with Man City, the Italian goalkeeper has recorded six clean sheets in 12 initial appearances. While he quickly integrated and showcased his talent, Donnarumma maintains high ambitions.

"I am a bit frustrated because I could have had more clean sheets", he said with a laugh. "I did not expect to make such a quick, positive impact in the Premier League. But the entire team warmly welcomed me, helping me greatly from the moment I arrived, and my debut came just three days later. From the very first training session, I felt as if I had been with Man City for two years".

By Ha Phuong (according to Sky Sports)