Paris Saint-Germain`s goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, delivered another stellar performance in the UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg on Tuesday. The Italian`s form has been a subject of much debate over the years; while some have always considered him a world-class talent, others doubted his consistency in high-pressure situations, pointing to previous seasons.
However, his recent displays, particularly on key Champions League nights for PSG this season, are silencing critics and proving he is indeed one of the world`s top goalkeepers. His crucial saves could be instrumental in guiding the French club to their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, provided they hold onto their advantage in the return leg in Paris next week. If PSG lifts the trophy, Donnarumma will deserve significant credit, likely enjoying the best phase of his career. Success could even propel him into consideration for the top 10 in the next Ballon d`Or rankings.
Having made his senior debut for AC Milan in Serie A at just 16, Donnarumma departed the Italian giants as a free agent in the summer of 2021. This move came just weeks before he became the hero of Italy`s UEFA Euro 2020 triumph, saving the decisive penalty against England`s Bukayo Saka in the final at Wembley. That tournament was a defining moment, but his club career since then has seen fluctuations, most notably a challenging experience against Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 during his first season at PSG, which drew significant criticism. Yet, Donnarumma remained focused, believing his moment to consistently shine would arrive.
PSG has undergone significant squad and coaching changes, seeing global superstars like Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Kylian Mbappe depart in recent years. Despite this flux, Donnarumma chose to stay with the club that pursued him so ardently after his Milan contract expired. Former PSG director Leonardo, who knew Donnarumma from his time at AC Milan, was key in bringing him to Paris, aided by the player`s agent, Mino Raiola. Moving to PSG was a complex decision for the young player, who was only 22 upon leaving Milan. The manner of his free transfer departure alienated many AC Milan fans, but the Italian keeper consistently demonstrated resilience and maturity beyond his years, handling the surrounding criticism effectively.
When current director Luis Campos took charge under owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi, he fully supported the vision centered around Donnarumma, aiming to make him an even more influential figure within the team. Recognizing this, “Gigio” dedicated himself to improving, and this season reflects that hard work and increased confidence in his role. He has been a standout performer in all of PSG`s critical Champions League fixtures, making very few errors throughout the campaign. In the round of 16 second leg against Real Sociedad, he made two crucial saves. Against Barcelona in the quarterfinals second leg, three vital stops helped secure PSG`s passage to the last four. And most recently, another pivotal performance against Borussia Dortmund in the semifinal first leg ensured Luis Enrique`s side carried a one-goal lead into the return leg. If PSG achieves European glory this season, Donnarumma`s invaluable contributions between the posts will undoubtedly be recognized as fundamental to their success.
