Gianluigi Donnarumma`s former goalkeeping coach at AC Milan believes Manchester City can unlock more of the Italian goalkeeper`s potential compared to PSG. The coach expressed surprise at PSG`s decision to replace Donnarumma with Lucas Chevalier.
Donnarumma rose to prominence at AC Milan as a teenager and has since established himself as one of the world`s top goalkeepers, playing a crucial role in Italy`s Euro 2020 victory. His development began under the guidance of Alfredo Magni from 2014 to 2018 at Milan.
Magni was disappointed when Donnarumma joined Manchester City largely due to Luis Enrique`s preference for a goalkeeper more comfortable with the ball at his feet. However, Magni believes Donnarumma has the capacity to improve this aspect of his game.
Enhancing Donnarumma`s Ball Skills
According to Magni, Donnarumma possesses the necessary attributes to play out from the back effectively. He argues that modern goalkeepers are expected to actively participate in build-up play and maintain possession.
“Donnarumma has the potential to meet these requirements,” Magni stated. “Goalkeepers today need to make smart decisions and distribute the ball well. If it`s about improving passing speed, that`s something that can be developed at any age.”
Magni suggests focusing on ankle strengthening exercises and coordination drills to enhance Donnarumma`s skills. He believes a motivated player like Donnarumma can quickly adapt to a coach`s tactical needs.
The former coach expressed disappointment in PSG`s decision to let Donnarumma go, stating, “It`s baffling that they`ve replaced potentially the world`s best goalkeeper with Chevalier, who is merely competent.”
Manchester City`s Role in Donnarumma`s Improvement
Magni believes Pep Guardiola and the Manchester City coaching staff can significantly improve Donnarumma`s footwork through targeted training.
“With three months of analytics, training, and specialized exercises focusing on ankle strength and kicking technique, he could easily make the necessary improvements,” Magni explained.
He also noted the need for Italian academies to adapt their training methods to meet the evolving demands of modern football, particularly in goalkeeper development.