Donnarumma on Mancini's Return and Manchester Life

Gianluigi Donnarumma shared his positive reaction to Roberto Mancini resuming his role as Italy's coach, stating his happiness with the decision. The goalkeeper also touched on the challenges and experiences of playing in Manchester, ahead of a derby match against Belgium's Senne Lammens.

Mancini's reappointment as Nazionale manager followed his departure in 2023. FIGC President Giovanni Malagò revealed Donnarumma had sent him a message expressing the squad's desire for Mancini's return: "President, thank you, this is exactly what the squad and I wanted."

Addressing the message at a press conference, Donnarumma clarified, "The message with the President was a private matter. With all due respect for the other coaches close to the Nazionale, I congratulated the President because we already have a bond of great affection with Mancini, for what we experienced together and what we won. So yes, I am happy."

Donnarumma Aims for Italy Revival

Donnarumma, part of the EURO 2020 winning squad, now plays for Manchester City. He conveyed his pride in representing Italy, especially while playing abroad: "I am so proud to represent the Nazionale, even more so since I started playing abroad, because I do really miss Italy and have the passion to come back and represent my country in the most important tournaments."

Looking ahead to the match involving Manchester City's Donnarumma and Manchester United's Lammens (representing Belgium), Donnarumma spoke highly of his rival: "He is a great goalkeeper and it’s not easy to do well at Manchester United. I am sure he’ll have a great future ahead of him, I did meet him, he’s an intelligent guy and I hope he keeps getting better, although only after tomorrow’s match."

The team returns to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, where their successful EURO 2020 campaign began. "It is always exciting to be back here, we had some wonderful moments in this stadium. I learned from every coach I worked with, every member of staff, and I will never stop learning," Donnarumma added.

Regarding the impact of Mancini's return on the squad's spirit, Donnarumma emphasized consistency: "The spirit should always be there, regardless of the coach, because we represent our country. Every coach has different tactical ideas, and we are working with Mancini on certain aspects. I hope we can achieve some of the results we had in the past with him. We made history at the Euros and hope to repeat that."