Donnarumma Says Haaland Played Key Role in His Move to Manchester City

Gianluigi Donnarumma revealed that Erling Haaland strongly encouraged him to join Manchester City in the summer. The goalkeeper has kept 4 clean sheets in 8 Premier League matches with a 77.8 percent save rate. Donnarumma thanked his teammates for helping him settle quickly as City chase Arsenal, who lead by 4 points.

When the summer transfer window closed, Gianluigi Donnarumma had already become one of Manchester City’s most influential new arrivals, and his move came with a surprising assist from Erling Haaland. Donnarumma revealed that Haaland personally encouraged him to join City and stayed in constant contact, pushing hard to bring the Italian goalkeeper to the Etihad.

The pair had built a strong friendship even before becoming teammates, often speaking after matches in previous seasons. Donnarumma arrived after winning the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, although he was replaced there as Luis Enrique preferred a different style of goalkeeper. Despite City signing James Trafford earlier in the window, the 26-year-old completed his switch on deadline day and quickly made an impact in the Premier League.

He has kept 4 clean sheets in 8 league appearances so far and holds a save percentage of 77.8, the second best in the division behind Robin Roefs. Donnarumma credited City’s squad for helping him settle within days, saying the intensity of the league required immediate adaptation. With City sitting 4 points behind Arsenal and preparing for a difficult trip to Newcastle, the keeper believes the support of his teammates has been crucial during his first months in Manchester.