Manchester City goalkeeper gianluigi Donnarumma reflected on his Neapolitan roots ahead of Thursday’s Champions League clash against Napoli, speaking at a news conference earlier today. The Italy international, who joined City this summer, was born in Castellammare di Stabia, near Naples, in 1999, and developed a passion for football through his older brother, Antonio, also a goalkeeper.
Donnarumma’s journey began with local side Club Napoli, were coaches noted his exceptional maturity and eagerness for training. He quickly attracted attention from Serie A clubs, ultimately signing with AC Milan at age 14 and becoming their youngest-ever starting goalkeeper in Serie A two years later.Despite initial homesickness, he persevered, securing titles with both AC Milan and Paris St-germain – including a Champions League title with PSG last season – before his recent move too Manchester.
The 24-year-old’s debut with Manchester City included a victory in a derby match, and he now prepares to face Napoli in his first European fixture under manager Pep Guardiola. Donnarumma’s connection to the region adds a personal dimension to the tie, as he returns to compete against the club representing his birthplace.
