Italy international Gigio Donnarumma thanks ‘true friend’ Gianluigi Buffon and insists ‘seeking help is no weakness.’
Donnarumma released an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, discussing his career so far and his approach in competitive matches for club and country.
The 25-year-old played with Buffon with Italy and the former legendary keeper continues inspiring Gigio now that he’s part of Luciano Spalletti’s staff.
“It’s a true friendship. Gigi has no envy and even when I was [Italy’s] second-choice keeper, he gave me advice and pushed me to improve,” said Donnarumma.
“I’ve always seen him as a role model. I admired his goalkeeping technique and tranquillity. One important thing for a goalkeeper is not to be overwhelmed by emotions. When I was in Milan‘s youth sector, I used to sit behind his goal as a ballboy.”
La Gazzetta dello Sport also published an interview with Donnarumma’s mental coach, Nicoletta Romanazzi, on Saturday. The Italian goalkeeper explained how her help had helped him between the sticks.
“One thing I’ve learned is how to react to errors rather than successes,” he said.
“I always thank her because she helps me focus on myself and not think about external elements. Seeking help is no weakness, on the contrary, it makes you stronger.
“The goalkeeper role is one of the most difficult but also the most beautiful. One of my strengths is remaining focused despite some errors. If you think about them, you are dead.
“People have the right to talk, but an opinion can’t determine a goalkeeper’s value. I am calm, especially because I can learn from mistakes.”
Gigio took a while to adapt to life at PSG after a free transfer from Milan in the summer of 2021 but he took a starting spot at the Parc des Princes in his second season at the club.
“It’s not easy to change city and adapt, also for the off-the-pitch impact,” he admitted.
Lastly, Gigio admitted that the Euros won by Italy in 2021 are Roberto Mancini’s “merit” but also praised his successor Luciano Spalletti: “He is a master of football, he likes to play well,” concluded Donnarumma.
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