Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has rediscovered strong form this season, but recent revelations from his mental coach have highlighted the psychological challenges he faced earlier in his career.
The Italy international joined Manchester City after a turbulent period at Paris Saint-Germain, where his role within the squad had become uncertain despite winning the Champions League with the French club. His move to England provided an opportunity for a fresh start, and his performances have helped restore confidence in his ability at the highest level.
However, according to mental performance coach Nicoletta Romanazzi, the goalkeeper endured significant pressure during earlier stages of his career.
Mental coach explains challenges faced by Gianluigi Donnarumma
Romanazzi has worked with several elite athletes and revealed details about her work with Donnarumma during his time at Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, she explained that the goalkeeper struggled with maintaining concentration in certain match situations, particularly when opposition teams suddenly threatened the penalty area.
“Gigio Donnarumma approached me at Paris Saint-Germain. With a team full of attacking players, he sometimes struggled to maintain concentration when opponents reached his penalty area.”
Romanazzi said her work with the goalkeeper focused on helping him manage pressure and maintain focus during key moments.
“I helped him manage the pressure because for many fans a goal is always the goalkeeper’s fault.”
AC Milan exit continued to affect the goalkeeper
One of the most difficult periods for Donnarumma came following his departure from AC Milan earlier in his career.
The goalkeeper’s decision to leave his childhood club on a free transfer generated significant backlash from sections of the club’s supporters. Even years later, he has frequently been greeted with boos when playing at San Siro.
Romanazzi explained that part of their work together involved helping the player process that criticism.
“We also worked on the reaction of AC Milan fans, especially before matches against his former club. He accepted that supporters felt betrayed, even though that was never his intention and he too had suffered.” — Nicoletta Romanazzi
Learning to cope with that pressure was considered a key step in Donnarumma’s development as a professional.
Donnarumma performances boosting Manchester City season
Since joining Manchester City, Donnarumma has become an important part of Pep Guardiola’s squad. His shot-stopping ability has helped the team remain competitive across multiple competitions this season.
| Gianluigi Donnarumma – 2025/26 Season | Stat |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 32 |
| Clean sheets | 14 |
| Save percentage | 76% |
| Goals conceded | 28 |
source: sofascore match data – 9 March 2026
Having followed Manchester City closely this season, Donnarumma’s consistency has often proved crucial in tight matches where the team needed decisive saves.
His ability with the ball at his feet has also improved under Guardiola’s tactical system, helping him adapt to the demands of modern goalkeeping.
However, it remains too early to determine how influential he could be in the final stages of the campaign.
Key Insights
- Mental coach Nicoletta Romanazzi worked with Donnarumma during his PSG period.
- The goalkeeper struggled with concentration during certain match situations.
- Criticism from AC Milan supporters continued to affect him psychologically.
- Donnarumma has re-established strong form since joining Manchester City.
- His performances have been important for City’s competitiveness this season.
What’s Next
Manchester City continue competing across several competitions as the season enters its final months. Donnarumma’s form will remain crucial as Pep Guardiola’s side pursue further domestic and European success.
Maintaining consistency in high-pressure matches could prove particularly important if City remain involved in title and Champions League races.
onnaHow important will Donnarumma’s performances be for Manchester City in the closing months of the season?
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