Manchester City’s new goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, made a costly mistake in Italy’s 5-4 World Cup qualifier victory over Israel on Monday, leading to widespread criticism from fans, particularly those from England. The 26-year-old, who joined City from Paris Saint-Germain for £26 million in September, made a disastrous misjudgment early in the game. In the fifth minute, Donnarumma attempted to punch a dangerous corner kick away but ended up sending the ball directly into his own net.
Fortunately for Donnarumma, the referee, Slavko Vincic, controversially ruled out the goal for a non-existent foul on Israel’s Stav Lemkin. While the decision saved Italy from going behind, the error left many questioning the goalkeeper’s reliability, particularly ahead of his Premier League debut with Manchester City.
Following the blunder, social media exploded with comments from fans, many of whom drew comparisons to Manchester United’s Andre Onana, who has also been criticized for high-profile errors this season. “This is the new Andre Onana in the Premier League,” one fan commented, referring to Onana’s own struggles at Manchester United. Others were quick to point out Donnarumma’s history of similar mistakes, with some suggesting that the pressure of the Premier League could expose his weaknesses.
The criticism continued with some fans mocking Donnarumma’s performance against Israel, with one remarking, “In situations like this, here in the Premier League, they’ll eat Donnarumma alive.” Another noted the irony of Donnarumma’s struggles with Italy following his high-profile move to Manchester City, adding, “Donnarumma conceding four goals from Israel immediately after signing for Man City. The Premier League is waiting for you.”
Despite his shaky performance, Donnarumma is expected to make his Manchester City debut this weekend in the derby against Manchester United, with manager Pep Guardiola hopeful that the Italian goalkeeper can settle into his new role at the club. Donnarumma is set to replace James Trafford, who has struggled early this season, and will look to make an immediate impact for City.
Donnarumma’s blunder serves as a reminder that, while the goalkeeper has been highly regarded throughout his career, he will need to quickly adapt to the Premier League’s intense scrutiny and competitive nature. As the season progresses, Manchester City fans will be hoping that their new signing can overcome these early jitters and prove himself as a reliable figure at the back.
