Donnarumma's journey began in his hometown of Castellammare di Stabia, near Naples, where he was born in 1999. His older brother, Antonio, was also a goalkeeper, and Gigio found his passion for the sport at an early age. He started playing for local side Club Napoli before joining AC Milan, where he quickly established himself as the team's number one goalkeeper.
Coaches praised Donnarumma for his fearlessness, maturity, and exceptional skills, which attracted scouts from top Italian clubs. By 14, he was already being scouted, and by 16, he was starting games for Milan. Over six seasons, he cemented his reputation as a calm, agile, and leadership-driven goalkeeper.
Donnarumma's international stardom began at Euro 2020, where his penalty heroics in the final against England made him a national icon. He was named Player of the Tournament, a rare honor for a goalkeeper. However, his free transfer to PSG in 2021 sparked criticism from AC Milan fans, who felt betrayed.
In Paris, Donnarumma collected trophies, including the Champions League in 2025, but also faced fierce competition and occasional criticism. He consistently responded with resilience, focusing on learning and coming back stronger. This mindset, combined with his physical strength and razor-sharp reflexes, has made him one of Europe's most reliable keepers.
Donnarumma's training routine blends physical intensity with psychological discipline. He focuses on agility drills, shot-stopping, and aerial dominance in the mornings, and recovery, including ice baths and tactical analysis, in the afternoons. Mental preparation, such as visualisation and controlled breathing, allows him to approach matches with calm focus.
Donnarumma's move to Manchester City in 2025 marked a new chapter in his career. He signed a £26m deal, replacing Ederson, and made his debut in the Manchester derby, delivering a brilliant performance to shut out United. He will face new challenges in the Premier League, but his past record suggests he will rise to the occasion.
With over a decade of top-flight football behind him, Donnarumma is entering his prime. He offers both security and ambition for Manchester City, and for himself, Manchester is the next chapter of a journey that began on the streets of southern Italy. Judging by his past, Gianluigi Donnarumma is destined to exceed expectations.
