Italian media outlets have extensively analysed Gianluigi Donnarumma subsequent to his final match for Italy before joining Manchester City after his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. The Champions League winner was surprisingly considered excess at the Parc des Princes as manager Luis Enrique prioritised a ball-playing custodian, appointing Lucas Chevalier as his new first choice.
Donnarumma would ultimately transfer to the Etihad on deadline day as the successor to long-serving custodian Ederson. Italian media have responded to the 6ft 5in giant’s recent performance in international competition.
Fans Respond to Donnarumma’s Performance Against Israel
The final score of 5-4 in favour of the Italians indicates that Donnarumma’s performance in goal was not particularly effective. Nonetheless, despite the goals he allowed, the 26-year-old’s performance did not reflect well on him.
Donnarumma’s initial action in the match was him inadvertently directing the ball into his own goal from a corner, however his embarrassment was alleviated as the play was halted for a foul. He had limited capacity to avert Israel’s initial goal β a Manuel Locatelli own goal β however the situation did not ameliorate thereafter.
The Italian exhibited unpredictable behaviour when confronted with various threats, displaying uncertainty on crosses. He subsequently conceded three additional goals, with the final one being his most egregious error, as he inadequately handled a long ball into the box and the ensuing header that facilitated Dor Peretz’s tap-in nearly on the goal line.
The match was scarcely memorable for Donnarumma, and the Italian media expressed their criticism unabashedly. Il Messaggero described him as ‘unrecognisable,’ whilst Corriere della Sera said that he was “not his typical Gigio.”
Leggo remarked that “he is particularly clumsy upon exiting,” while Virgil Sport observed that he “quickly commits a misstep with his feet, validating Luis Enrique’s assessment and causing concern for Guardiola.”
Football Italia remarked on the recent acquisition by City, observing that the custodian exhibited some uncertainty when departing his goal line, although a few commendable saves.
Critics among fans labelled Donnarumma as ‘Onana-esque,’ highlighting the resemblance between his disallowed own-goal punch and the one Altay Bayindir permitted against Arsenal, implying that the Italian may encounter difficulties with the Premier League’s aggressiveness. Some felt that the frontrunner for this year’s Yashin Award was overrated.
A admirer remarked, “This is the standard Donnarumma.” He is a competent custodian, however he has been significantly overstated due to [PSG’s] recent Champions League performance, while another remarked that the Italian is “the most overrated custodian in history.”
Donnarumma may confront Bayindir in his inaugural match for City, since a Manchester derby is scheduled as their initial encounter following the international break.
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