Manchester City might be concerned about the Italian media’s reaction to Gianluigi Donnarumma’s performance against Israel.
Italy won a nine-goal thriller, defeating Israel 5-4, with a 91st-minute goal from Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali sealing the result.
However, from a defensive perspective, Pep Guardiola’s new goalkeeper left much to be desired, conceding four goals throughout the game.
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Man City signed Donnarumma on transfer deadline day for £25million on a five-year deal, despite the club having already signed James Trafford earlier in the window.
The Italian goalkeeper will now be under pressure as he steps in to replace Ederson at the Etihad Stadium, with Man City fans having high expectations for his performances.
Gianluigi Donnarumma waves to the PSG fans
Photo by Tnani Badreddine/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images
Gianluigi Donnarumma was ‘rash’ against Israel
Italy might have got over the line against Israel, but that wasn’t helped by the defensive display of Gennaro Gattuso’s men, and the Italian media have had their say on the performance.
Football Italia issued Donnarumma a 5.5 out of 10 for his efforts, claiming he was, ‘A bit shaky when coming off his goalline and a couple of good saves.’
Match Stats Donnarumma
Saves 4
Accurate Passes 22/29 (76%)
Recoveries 7
Touches 42
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s match stats vs. Israel – via FotMob
Meanwhile, Sky Italia used the word ‘disordered’ to sum up the six out of 10 they awarded the new Manchester City goalkeeper.
‘He was rightfully included in the general chaos of the first half. He made rash exits, mistimed shots, and conceded two goals, one of which he scored himself.
‘Even though it wasn’t on the scoresheet because, generously, Slovenian referee Vincic ruled a foul on him by Lemkin for a body check. Away from his posts, Gigio was left feeling anxious.
‘In goal, however, he remained the usual guarantee, as he did when he saved the result in the 75th minute.’
Donnarumma’s performance for Italy might not inspire much confidence in Man City fans ahead of his potential Premier League debut this weekend in a major derby against Manchester United.
Donnarumma has already admitted he will make mistakes during his time at the Etihad Stadium when speaking about the expectation to play with the ball at his feet.
Gianluigi Donnarumma of Italy arrives before Italy training session at Centro Tecnico Federale di Coverciano on September 01, 2025 in Florence, Italy.
Photo by Claudio Villa – FIGC/FIGC via Getty Images
James Trafford will provide Gianluigi Donnarumma with competition
Donnarumma is expected to be Man City’s first-choice goalkeeper after his late transfer from PSG, but with Trafford already at the club, it won’t be a simple situation.
The former Burnley shot-stopper has started all three games for the Cityzens this season, and while his performances have been mixed, there is a lot of expectation for what he can achieve.
The England international is aiming to make Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad at the end of the season, so he needs to get plenty of game time.
Guardiola will need to try to strike a balance of keeping both goalkeepers happy, but it’s clear that there is fierce competition, which means any mistakes could lead to someone being dropped.