Gianluigi Donnarumma, still riding the high of Manchester City’s recent derby triumph, sat down at the club’s training complex to reflect on the performance. While the controversial late winner from Erling Haaland drew plenty of headlines, the goalkeeper’s focus was elsewhere – he was more concerned about the earlier dismissal of Phil Foden, which he felt was overly harsh. Yet, despite being a man down and facing several adverse moments, City displayed resilience and clinched the victory. "I was thrilled by how my teammates played; it was absolutely brilliant," Donnarumma told Sky Sports.
"The ability to stay composed, to respond to setbacks, and to keep fighting – that’s something no opponent can strip away from us." He added that every player feels a deep sense of duty toward the iconic shirt and the club that has given them so much support. "Manchester City has a rich heritage, and we owe it to the fans and the institution to give back in every possible way," he said.
The club entered the international break still unbeaten, a rare feat given the recent departure of several stalwarts from Pep Guardiola’s long‑dominant era – namely Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Rodri. While City have not been flawless in every department, Donnarumma acknowledged there is still plenty to learn, even after a seemingly perfect start to the Enzo Maresca‑era.
The season was originally billed as a period of transition, but the goalkeeper is reluctant to embrace that label. "I don’t like the word ‘transition’," he explained. "Our goal, as a club and as a squad, is simply to win.
We’ll give everything we have to make that happen." He emphasized that the season could end either with trophies or with nothing at all, but what truly matters is maintaining a winning mindset and striving to secure every possible prize. This mentality is being reinforced by a newly‑formed leadership group, of which Donnarumma is a key member. The quartet – comprising Ruben Dias, Erling Haaland, and Marc Guehi alongside Donnarumma – all share a common pedigree: each has lifted trophies both at City and elsewhere in their careers.
As fresh faces such as Ayyoub Bouaddi, Elliot Anderson and Iliman Ndiaye integrate into the squad, the leadership core is tasked with setting standards in what the club insists is a non‑transition year. "We have brought in several new players," Donnarumma noted. "They are all top‑class athletes accustomed to performing on the biggest stages and handling the pressures of Premier League football." He recognised the challenges that accompany a move to a new city, a new club and a new organisational culture, but praised the existing squad for helping the newcomers settle in quickly. "The veterans have been incredibly supportive, and I believe we are on track for a fantastic season," he said.
The ambition, according to Donnarumma, is to compete on every front – the Premier League, the Champions League, and both domestic cup competitions. City’s message is clear: the team is capable of achieving anything when it clicks.
Yet, when Donnarumma looks ahead to the battle for the league and Europe, he identifies one primary rival: Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s side also opened the campaign with four straight league victories before a slip‑up against Brighton, and they enjoy the psychological boost of having edged City out for the Premier League title last May. The recent documentary on Guardiola captured moments of disappointment among City players after a costly loss to Bournemouth, a match that handed the title to the Gunners.
Donnarumma, who had collected five consecutive league crowns before that season, was among those feeling the sting. "It’s tough, but that’s football and that’s life," he reflected. "You’re never alone in these setbacks – there are other strong teams, especially in the Premier League." He stressed that disappointment is inevitable when you aim for greatness, but it is the presence of other elite clubs that makes the competition fierce, both domestically and in Europe.
"Every match must be approached with the intention to win. Our objective is to win, but we must respect the quality of our opponents." The Italian keeper highlighted the importance of hard work, competition and honoring the club’s storied legacy. "You have to give your all, because the history of Manchester City demands it," he said.
When asked whether City and Arsenal will be the duelling forces at the top when May arrives, Donnarumma replied, "I don’t know. We’re only four games into the campaign." Nonetheless, he reiterated that the immediate focus must be on preparation and winning each fixture.
"Our priority right now is to work hard, to aim for victory in every game, and to keep that ambition alive," he concluded. "Whether we achieve all our goals in the end will be decided by time." The season promises excitement, and fans can tune in to watch Manchester City take on Sunderland in the Premier League on Sky Sports’ Super Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m. Additionally, the Super 6 competition offers a chance to win £1 million, with free entry available for participants.