Manchester City has officially signed Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a five-year contract, following the sale of Brazilian keeper Ederson to Fenerbahçe for approximately £12 million. Although the exact transfer fee was not disclosed, reports indicate that City paid around £30 million ($40.5 million) for the 26-year-old, who will don jersey number 99.
Donnarumma’s move comes after a successful tenure at PSG, where he was instrumental in the club’s first UEFA Champions League title earlier this year. His vital penalty saves against Liverpool and a clean sheet in the final against Inter Milan were key to their victory. However, with the signing of Lucas Chevalier, Donnarumma fell out of favor at PSG, prompting his transition to the Premier League.
City’s Director of Football, Hugo Viana, praised Donnarumma’s experience and leadership qualities, emphasizing his important contributions to PSG’s recent triumphs. Donnarumma expressed his enthusiasm for joining Pep Guardiola’s squad, deeming it a privilege to play at the Etihad Stadium and revealing his long-standing admiration for the club.
Ederson’s departure signifies the end of an era for Manchester City. Since joining from Benfica in 2017, he made 372 appearances, achieved 168 clean sheets, and collected 18 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and one Champions League. Ederson expressed gratitude for his time at City, crediting Guardiola for their achievements and stating he would always support the club.
Donnarumma’s signing is expected to enhance Manchester City’s goalkeeping options as they aim for success on multiple fronts. His vast experience in European football will be crucial as he integrates into the team’s playing style while contributing to their pursuit of further domestic and international honors.
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