Gianluigi Donnarumma wants to win UEFA Champions League with Manchester City by bringing his magic from Paris to Manchester.
The 26-year-old shot-stopper has hit the ground running since joining City in a £26 million move from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day — a deal that has already been dubbed one of the smartest pieces of business of the summer.
The signing marked a statement of intent from new director of football Hugo Viana, who capped off his debut transfer window by landing Donnarumma, alongside Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders.
Donnarumma’s arrival has been a game-changer. Since his first appearance at the Etihad, he has injected composure and authority into a dressing room still adjusting to the loss of key figures such as Kevin De Bruyne.
The Italian’s presence between the sticks has left James Trafford, City’s 22-year-old English goalkeeper, relegated to the bench — a reflection of Donnarumma’s impact and dominance.
Speaking to Manchester City’s official club magazine for its November edition, Donnarumma opened up about settling into life in England and adapting to the Premier League’s unique intensity.
“I think the environment here is different. Playing in England, the atmosphere, the noise and the passion from the fans is very unique to this country and because I will now always be playing English teams in the Premier League,” he said.
The former AC Milan prodigy, who left PSG after a turbulent summer following disagreements with manager Luis Enrique and the club’s hierarchy over a contract extension, played a crucial role in leading the French champions to their first-ever Champions League crown last season.
His performances in Paris cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s elite goalkeepers — and City were quick to pounce when his situation in France soured.
For Manchester City, Donnarumma’s signing represents more than just a transfer; it’s a statement of renewal after a difficult campaign.
Pep Guardiola’s side endured one of their toughest seasons in recent memory last term, faltering in the Premier League title race, bowing out of the Champions League against Real Madrid in the play off, and suffering heartbreak in the FA Cup final.
Now, Donnarumma wants to win UEFA Champions League with Manchester City as he set his sights firmly on restoring City’s European dominance.
“I hope I can repeat those performances (from the Champions League) every week for City,” Donnarumma said with determination.
“I played in those games against Arsenal, Liverpool and City and enjoyed them all – now I want to repay the faith the coach, owner and board has put in me. I’m sure we’ll do great things together.”
The Italian’s commitment to “repaying Pep” — a nod to Guardiola’s influence and trust — has quickly endeared him to both teammates and supporters.
Inside the club, Donnarumma has already earned glowing reviews for his professionalism and leadership. His communication and authority have been particularly praised by Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias, who have lauded how seamlessly he has adapted to City’s system and the demands of English football.
Off the pitch, Donnarumma is embracing his new environment with equal enthusiasm. The 26-year-old says he is eager to experience everything Manchester has to offer, while balancing his competitive ambitions with family life.
“A lot – I can’t wait to get around and try out new places and discover new things. Each city gives you new experiences and I can’t wait to see everything and experience them with my family,” he said.
“I’m sure they will be happy here and I’m already enjoying this new adventure. I’m here to win, make history, but most of all to make the fans proud and win a lot of trophies together as it’s an historic club that deserves to be as high as possible.”
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City’s European ambitions are no secret. Since lifting the club’s first-ever Champions League trophy in 2023, Guardiola’s men have been desperate to reassert themselves as Europe’s elite after last season’s setbacks.
Donnarumma’s pedigree — a Euro 2020 winner with Italy and a Champions League victor with PSG — fits perfectly with that mission.
Behind the scenes, Guardiola reportedly sees the Italian as the cornerstone of a new defensive era, complementing the likes of Dias, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones.
The manager believes Donnarumma’s world-class reflexes and commanding presence can redefine City’s approach in high-stakes matches, particularly in Europe, where marginal gains often decide success.
