The future of Gianluigi Donnarumma has been thrown into sharp focus this week after Paris Saint-Germain confirmed the Italian goalkeeper is no longer part of Luis Enrique’s plans. The 26-year-old, who played a crucial role in PSG’s Champions League triumph last season, issued a heartfelt farewell message to supporters after being dropped from the squad for the French side’s Super Cup clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
It comes amid reports that both Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring his situation closely, with City’s interest gaining particular attention after striker Erling Haaland appeared to acknowledge the goalkeeper’s statement on social media.
Enrique Draws a Line
PSG head coach Luis Enrique did little to hide his reasoning when asked about Donnarumma’s exclusion from the matchday squad.
“Donnarumma is out of the squad as it’s my own decision, I am 100% responsible,” Enrique told reporters. “I want a different kind of goalkeeper and I made this decision. Gigio is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but this is about the profile I need.”
For a player who has been central to PSG’s recent success, including their long-awaited Champions League breakthrough, the move came as a shock. Donnarumma had been expected to remain a cornerstone of the team heading into the new season.
A Passionate Farewell
Donnarumma responded with an emotional statement on Instagram, which many interpreted as a direct response to Enrique’s decision.
“Unfortunately, someone has decided that I can no longer be part of the group and contribute to the team’s success. I am disappointed and disheartened,” he wrote.
“I hope to have the opportunity to look the fans at the Parc des Princes in the eyes one more time and say goodbye as it should be done. If that doesn’t happen, I want you to know that your support and affection mean the world to me, and I will never forget it.”
The message made clear that Donnarumma sees his time in Paris as effectively over, even if no transfer has yet been agreed.
City’s Position
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have made contact regarding a potential deal, though the situation is complicated.
City already signed James Trafford earlier in the summer, while long-time first-choice Ederson has been linked with a move to Galatasaray. Reports suggest City would only make a formal offer for Donnarumma if Ederson departs, with PSG demanding around €50m for the Italian.
For now, Donnarumma remains in limbo: a goalkeeper unwanted by his current club, admired by others, but waiting for the first concrete step toward a new chapter.
Haaland’s Subtle Signal
Eagle-eyed fans were quick to notice that Erling Haaland had liked Donnarumma’s Instagram post. While a single click on social media rarely provides conclusive evidence of intent, it was enough to stir speculation that the Manchester City striker might be quietly endorsing the idea of his club moving for the Italian.
Haaland and Donnarumma have not been teammates before, though they have faced each other on the pitch a handful of times. Both are of a similar age and have been among Europe’s standout performers in their respective positions, leading some to wonder if their paths could now align at the Etihad.
Of course, it is equally possible that Haaland’s gesture was no more than an acknowledgement of a fellow professional facing a difficult moment.
A Career at a Crossroads
Donnarumma’s potential departure from PSG marks another twist in a career already filled with high-profile turns. Bursting onto the scene as a teenager at AC Milan, he was long touted as Italy’s goalkeeper for a generation. His move to PSG in 2021 was controversial, but it delivered domestic dominance and, finally, Champions League success.
Now, at just 26, he finds himself searching for another new home. For City, the equation is complex: signing Donnarumma would represent a major investment in a position they have already strengthened, but the opportunity to add a goalkeeper of his calibre does not come around often.
For PSG, it is a bold decision. By moving on from a Champions League-winning goalkeeper, Enrique has signalled he wants to reshape the squad in his own image. Whether that pays off will be judged in the months ahead.
What Happens Next
With the European transfer window still open, Donnarumma’s future remains unsettled. Manchester United have been linked as well, though much depends on their own goalkeeper plans. For City, all eyes are on Ederson – should he leave, the door could open for Donnarumma to join Pep Guardiola’s side.
Until then, the story remains one of uncertainty, emotion, and speculation. For Donnarumma, the message was clear: his time at PSG is ending. For the clubs circling, the decision is whether they are ready to seize the opportunity.
