Guardiola’s Masterstroke: Why Man City Made the Move for Donnarumma

By DJ Henrylight September 12th, 2025

Guardiola Breaks Down Donnarumma Signing Before Manchester Derby

In a move that’s sent ripples through the transfer market, Manchester City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has provided a surprising insight into the club’s recent acquisition of goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Speaking to the media during his pre-match press conference for the highly anticipated Manchester derby, Guardiola shed light on why the club opted for the Italian international, especially with promising young talent like James Trafford already on the roster.
Guardiola’s rationale for the signing was unusually direct. He emphasized

Donnarumma’s towering presence as a crucial factor, a trait he believes will be a double-edged sword. “Donnarumma is so tall and so huge,” Guardiola stated. “He is going to concede goals. That’s for sure. But, all of us, we’re going to try to help him so it doesn’t happen.” This candid admission revealed a new, more direct approach to goalkeeping that City seems to be embracing, moving away from the pure ball-playing style of the recently departed Ederson.

Despite the significant investment in Donnarumma, Guardiola insisted that the battle for the starting position is far from over. He was quick to address questions about who would be the number one choice between the Italian and Trafford, suggesting both keepers will play a vital role. “He is a keeper for Manchester City. The season is so long. Now we start the real season with many games, and everybody will be involved. They don’t believe it, but it’s going to happen,” Guardiola explained, hinting at a rotation policy that will keep both players on their toes and ready for action.

The arrival of the 26-year-old shot-stopper signals a pivotal new chapter for the Sky Blues. Donnarumma, who signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year after a £26-30 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, will be wearing the number 99 shirt. His move to the Etihad comes in the wake of the departure of long-serving Brazilian keeper Ederson, who joined Fenerbahçe earlier this summer. Donnarumma’s presence not only fills a key void but also introduces a different tactical dimension to Guardiola’s squad as they pursue another title.