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Gianluigi Donnarumma has officially completed his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Manchester City for a fee of £26 million ($35m), marking a major move in the summer window for the Premier League champions.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Italian shot-stopper has penned a five-year contract with Manchester City, which includes an option for an additional year. At 26, Donnarumma steps into the void left by Ederson, who joined Fenerbahce after enjoying eight successful years under Pep Guardiola. Although Donnarumma’s style differs from the type of goalkeeper Guardiola typically favours, the Italian brings vast experience — having competed at elite levels for a decade and earned multiple honours both domestically and internationally.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Donnarumma became the second-youngest goalkeeper ever to appear in Serie A when he made his debut for AC Milan at just 16 years and 242 days old. During his time with the Rossoneri, he made 215 appearances and won the Supercoppa Italiana in 2016. His move to PSG in 2021 saw him add ten trophies to his collection, including playing a key role in helping the French giants win their first-ever UEFA Champions League title last season as part of a historic treble.

The Italian international remains the youngest goalkeeper ever to represent his country, debuting at 17. He has since earned 74 caps and played a defining role in Italy’s Euro 2021 triumph, where he was named Player of the Tournament. His performances that year also saw him collect the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the 2021 Ballon d’Or ceremony.

WHAT DONNARUMMA SAID

Speaking to Manchester City’s official website, Donnarumma expressed his delight: “Signing for Manchester City is a truly special and proud moment in my career. I’m joining a squad filled with world-class players and working under one of football’s greatest managers, Pep Guardiola. This is a club every footballer dreams of playing for. I’ve admired City’s style for years, and to now wear this shirt is an incredible honour. I’m eager to meet my new teammates, the coaching staff, and the supporters. Playing at the Etihad Stadium will be an unforgettable experience. I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead and promise to give everything I have to help the club achieve even greater success.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Donnarumma will don the number 99 jersey for Manchester City. He becomes the club’s seventh signing of the summer and the third goalkeeper addition, following James Trafford and Marcus Bettinelli.

WHAT NEXT FOR DONNARUMMA?

Before fully settling in at his new club, Donnarumma heads off to represent Italy in their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Estonia and Israel. He is expected to rejoin City later next week as preparations begin for a potential debut in a thrilling Manchester derby against Manchester United on September 14.