Gianluigi Donnarumma Set to Choose Manchester City Over Manchester United After Announcing PSG Exit

Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Italian shot stopper who played a key role in Paris Saint-Germain’s first UEFA Champions League triumph and their historic treble in the 2024/25 season, has confirmed that his time in the French capital is over. In an emotional statement to the supporters, he thanked them for their affection while revealing that “someone decided that I can no longer be part of the group.”

He expressed disappointment and disheartenment at how the exit unfolded. Donnarumma made it clear that he gave everything on and off the pitch to earn his place in the squad and defend PSG’s goal with pride. He said he will always carry the memories of magical nights at the Parc des Princes and the special connection he had with the fans. He also paid tribute to his teammates, calling them his second family, and promised to cherish the bonds they built over his three seasons in Paris.

The farewell comes in the wake of his omission from PSG’s UEFA Super Cup squad against Tottenham. Luis Enrique later explained in a press conference that the decision was entirely his, stating that he was “looking for a different profile of goalkeeper” for the team. While praising Donnarumma as one of the best in the world, Enrique emphasised that the club had moved in a new direction.

PSG have already signed French goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier from Lille, who is expected to become the first choice due to his superior distribution and comfort on the ball. This signing effectively ended Donnarumma’s chances of regaining his place in the starting lineup.

What Lies Ahead: Manchester City Leading the Race

Speculation about Donnarumma’s next destination has been intense ever since rumours of his departure began to circulate. Manchester United had previously shown interest in the 26-year-old, but sources in England suggest that they are unwilling to start a bidding war. United’s focus remains on strengthening other areas of the pitch, such as a midfielder, while relying on André Onana as their number one for now. Which initially wasn’t the plan.

Manchester City, however, have moved quickly. Multiple reports in France and England claim that Donnarumma has already agreed personal terms with City after holding talks with Pep Guardiola. The only obstacle appears to be the future of Ederson. The Brazilian has been linked with a move to Galatasaray and clubs in Saudi Arabia, and his departure would clear the way for Donnarumma to become City’s new first choice.

RMC Sport reports that City’s hierarchy have been impressed by Donnarumma’s pedigree and see him as a long term solution. Although James Trafford was signed earlier this summer for a record fee for a British goalkeeper, he is still seen as one for the future. Donnarumma’s arrival would immediately raise the level in the position and give Guardiola another proven performer for high pressure matches.

Why Manchester City Fits Donnarumma

Donnarumma’s primary strength has always been his shot-stopping and ability to rise to the occasion in decisive matches. His performances during PSG’s Champions League campaign last season were crucial to their success, especially in the knockout rounds, where he made game-defining saves. While his distribution has often been scrutinised, Guardiola is known for improving players’ technical ability and building them into the system.

The Italian’s towering presence and command of the penalty area would give City an added layer of security in defensive situations. Guardiola’s teams also benefit from having keepers who can make match saving interventions in one on one situations, an area where Donnarumma thrives.

Opportunity for the Number One Role

If Ederson leaves, the starting spot at Manchester City becomes immediately available. While Ortega and Trafford are capable, neither has the level of big-match experience that Donnarumma brings. At only 26, he already has over 300 senior club appearances, a European Championship winner’s medal with Italy, and a Champions League title to his name.

City’s ambition to dominate both domestically and in Europe aligns perfectly with Donnarumma’s hunger for success. The club’s defensive organisation and ball retention would also allow him to focus on his strengths while gradually refining the parts of his game that need improvement.

United’s Position and Why the Move Makes Sense

Manchester United have monitored Donnarumma in the past but are in a different position now. While André Onana was signed for a hefty fee from Inter almost two years ago, the Cameroon International’s time at Old Trafford hasn’t quite hit the mark. With a bundle of errors and embarrassing situations, United fans certainly felt that the club needed to address the situation and get another goalkeeper for Ruben Amorim’s full season in charge. 

However, committing large funds to another goalkeeper could disrupt their plans for squad balance, particularly in midfield, where they are now in the hunt for Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.

In contrast, City’s situation could offer Donnarumma immediate Champions League contention, an elite defensive setup, and the opportunity to work with one of the most successful managers in football history. The move would also give him the platform to prove himself in the Premier League, a league where elite goalkeepers are tested both physically and mentally every week.

Final Thoughts

Gianluigi Donnarumma’s departure from PSG marks the end of a memorable chapter in his career. He leaves Paris as a Champions League winner and a key part of the most successful season in the club’s history. While his exit was shaped by a managerial decision rather than a drop in performance, it opens the door to a fresh challenge in England.

Manchester City appear to be in pole position to sign him, with personal terms already reported to be in place. The final piece of the puzzle will be Ederson’s future, which is expected to be resolved in the coming weeks. Should the move go through, Donnarumma will join a club built to win and compete at the very highest level, giving him the ideal stage to continue adding to his legacy.

For Manchester United, it seems they will have to watch from the sidelines as their cross city rivals secure one of Europe’s most decorated goalkeepers. For Donnarumma, the decision looks set to shape the next prime years of his career, potentially bringing him to the centre of English football’s most competitive and successful team.