A Strategic Signing for Guardiola

Manchester City finalized the signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain on Monday in a deal valued at $35 million. The 26-year-old Italian goalkeeper has signed a five-year contract, tying him to the Etihad until 2030, and arrives to fill the vacancy left by Ederson, who recently moved to Fenerbahçe.

City not only secures a world-class shot-stopper, but also adds a proven champion. Donnarumma played a pivotal role in PSG’s treble last season under Luis Enrique, lifting the Champions League, Ligue 1, and the Coupe de France.

The Legacy in Paris

Since arriving at PSG in 2021 from AC Milan, Donnarumma racked up 104 Ligue 1 appearances, with 32 clean sheets. During PSG’s historic European campaign, he played all 15 Champions League matches, keeping six clean sheets — numbers that underline his authority between the posts.

However, the arrival of Lucas Chevalier from Lille accelerated his departure. PSG opted to bet on youth in goal, while City seized the chance to sign an elite goalkeeper in his prime.

Sky Blue Pride

In his first words as a City player, Donnarumma expressed his excitement: “Signing for Manchester City is such a special and proud moment for me. I am joining a squad full of world-class talent and led by one of the greatest managers in football history, Pep Guardiola.”

The Italian will wear the number 99 shirt, the same he used when he debuted for Milan, and promises total commitment to help expand the English club’s trophy cabinet. For Guardiola, his arrival ensures continuity in a key position and marks a statement signing in the European market.