Gianluigi Donnarumma’s roles in Euro 2020 win for Italy and his initial journey

Gianluigi Donnaruma had a great journey in life as a footballer. He made his debut at just 16 years and 242 days old. This tall goal-keeper, who is only 22 now, became the second youngest goalkeeper to play in a Serie A match when he appeared against Sassuolo for Milan.

Donnarumma didn’t show any cracks in his armour, as he went into the Euro 2020. His assured performances in the tournament allowed the Azzuri manage to go all the way. He punched and patted away everything thrown at him and maintained three clean sheets in the group stages.

He saved penalty kicks against Spain and England in the semi-final and final showed how difficult he is to beat from 12 yards. Donnarumma was crowned the Euro 2020 Player of the Tournament, after the final at Wembley.

Donnarumma will begin with PSG in the next season. He confirmed his capture on a free transfer on Wednesday. It’s likely he will be joined on his new quest by long-term girlfriend, Alessia Elefante, who prefers to keep out of the public eye.

Initial days

The first match he participated in was played at the San Siro. This 6ft 5in keeper was so critical in Italy winning Euro 2020. He even walked away with Player of the Tournament – becoming the first goalkeeper to officially win the award.

PSG has selected him to play for the club now on after leaving boyhood club Milan. He previously played a remarkable 251 times despite his tender years. Donnarumma started his career with Napoli, having been born just outside the city in Castellammare di Stabia.

Initially former Milan manager Siniša Mihajlović promoted Donnarumma to the first team squad. He was the third-choice behind Diego López and Christian Abbiati. At the age of 16 years and 242 days, he was just 13 days shy of Giuseppe Sacchi’s record made 73 years earlier.

A contract wrangle began over his future. He was represented by super agent Mino Raiola. It was announced he wouldn’t be renewing his contract with the club in 2017. His performance was poor at the U21 European Championships that summer and damaged his image.

But Raiola and Donnarumma got what they wanted, eventually. A month later they put pen to paper on a four-year deal worth £5million-per-annum. A clause was also inserted into the contract that Milan had to sign his brother Antonio, who was playing for Greek side Asteras Tripolis.