Gianluigi Donnarumma Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 23, 2025
As the calendar turns to 2025, Gianluigi Donnarumma stands not just as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers, but as a symbol of resilience, maturity, and evolution in modern football.
Once hailed as the “new Gigi Buffon,” the towering Italian shot-stopper has long since stepped out of the shadow of his legendary predecessor—forging his own legacy as a World Cup-caliber goalkeeper, a Champions League winner, and a pillar of composure under pressure.
Then: The Boy Wonder of Milan (2015–2021)
1. A Phenom at 16 – The Rise Begins
Born on February 25, 1999, in Castellammare di Stabia, Italy, Gianluigi Donnarumma joined AC Milan’s youth academy at just 14 years old. Towering at over 6’6” (1.98m) even as a teenager, he combined exceptional reflexes, calmness under pressure, and maturity beyond his years.
His breakthrough came on October 25, 2015, when, at 16 years and 242 days, he became the youngest goalkeeper ever to start a Serie A match for AC Milan—a record that still stands.
From that moment, “Gigio” was no longer just a prospect. He was a phenomenon.
2. Becoming Milan’s No. 1
Over the next six seasons, Gianluigi Donnarumma evolved into AC Milan’s undisputed number one:
- Made over 250 appearances for the club
- Developed a reputation for clutch saves, one-on-one dominance, and penalty-stopping ability
- Became a fan favorite for his fearlessness and leadership, despite his youth
He was named Serie A Best Young Player (2016, 2017) and earned his first cap for the Italian national team in 2016—again, at just 17.
3. The Contract Saga and Emotional Exit
In 2021, after years of speculation, Gianluigi Donnarumma made the heart-wrenching decision to leave AC Milan upon the expiration of his contract. Despite emotional tributes from fans and teammates, he chose to join Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, seeking a new challenge and a fresh start.
The move sparked controversy, but Donnarumma remained resolute:
“I love Milan, but I had to think about my future.”
Related: Emiliano Martínez Then and Now
Now: The PSG Stalwart and National Hero (2021–2025)
1. Establishing Dominance at Paris Saint-Germain
At PSG, Gianluigi Donnarumma faced immense pressure—replacing Keylor Navas and stepping into a squad packed with superstars. Critics questioned whether he could handle the spotlight in Paris.
But by 2023, he had proven himself:
- Became the first-choice goalkeeper under Christophe Galtier and later Luis Enrique
- Played a crucial role in PSG’s domestic dominance, winning:
- Ligue 1 titles (2022, 2023, 2024)
- Coupe de France (2024)
- Trophée des Champions (2022, 2023)
His command of the box, quick reflexes, and distribution made him the perfect fit for PSG’s high defensive line and possession-based style.
2. UEFA Champions League Glory – The 2024 Triumph
The defining moment of Gianluigi Donnarumma’s club career came in June 2024, when PSG won their first-ever UEFA Champions League title, defeating Borussia Dortmund in a dramatic final.
Donnarumma was man of the match, making a crucial penalty save in the 88th minute and another in the shootout. His performance silenced doubters and cemented his status as one of the world’s best goalkeepers.
In 2025, he is widely regarded as one of the top three goalkeepers on the planet, alongside Alisson Becker and André Onana.
3. Evolution as a Modern Goalkeeper
By 2025, Donnarumma has transformed into a complete, modern goalkeeper:
- Elite shot-stopping – consistently among the top in save percentage in Europe
- Strong with his feet – vital under Luis Enrique’s high-pressing system
- Leadership and organization – directs defenders with authority
- Mental toughness – thrives in high-pressure knockout games
His calm demeanor, even in chaos, has made him a trusted figure in high-stakes matches.
Related: Mike Maignan Then and Now
International Career: Italy’s Number One (2016–2025)
1. Euro 2020 – Redemption and Glory
Donnarumma’s greatest moment came at UEFA Euro 2020, where he was instrumental in Italy’s championship victory.
After a tense final against England at Wembley:
- Made two penalty saves in the shootout
- Was named Player of the Tournament – the first goalkeeper ever to win the award
- Became a national hero
His tears of joy after the final whistle became one of the most iconic images in Italian football history.
2. World Cup 2022 and Euro 2024 – Leadership in Transition
Though Italy failed to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Donnarumma remained a symbol of pride and continuity. By Euro 2024, now in his mid-20s, he had fully assumed the role of team leader and emotional anchor.
Despite Italy’s early exit in the quarterfinals, Gianluigi Donnarumma delivered multiple man-of-the-match performances, including a heroic double save against Germany.
As of 2025, he is Italy’s most-capped goalkeeper and widely expected to lead the Azzurri through Euro 2028 and World Cup 2026.
Related: Christian Pulisic Then and Now
Personal Growth and Public Image
Once criticized for his quiet nature and perceived immaturity, Donnarumma has matured into a confident, articulate, and grounded leader. In interviews, he speaks thoughtfully about:
- The pressure of being Italy’s number one
- Learning from Buffon and other legends
- Mental health and handling criticism
He is in a long-term relationship with Alexandra Paterson, a Swedish-Italian model, and the couple maintains a low-key, private life despite constant media attention.
He’s also involved in charity work, supporting children’s hospitals and youth football programs in Naples and Milan.
Related: Angelo Ogbonna Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy (In 2025)
By 2025, Gianluigi Donnarumma has transcended the role of a goalkeeper. He is:
- A symbol of Italian resilience after years of international disappointment
- A role model for young goalkeepers worldwide
- A global ambassador for mental toughness and professionalism
His journey—from a shy teenager in Milan to lifting the Champions League trophy in London—resonates with fans as a story of courage, growth, and redemption.
He’s also a marketing powerhouse, with endorsement deals from:
- Puma (his signature gloves are best-sellers)
- EA Sports (cover athlete for FIFA 24)
- Hublot, Pepsi, and Italian fashion brands
His image—calm, focused, and commanding—embodies the modern goalkeeper.
Conclusion: Gianluigi Donnarumma – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A 16-year-old prodigy, thrown into the spotlight, carrying the hopes of AC Milan and Italy with quiet determination.
- Now: A Champions League winner, European champion, PSG legend in the making, and one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation.
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s story is not just about talent—it’s about handling pressure, evolving under scrutiny, and rising when it matters most. He didn’t just survive the weight of expectation; he mastered it.
As he enters his prime at age 26 in 2025, one thing is clear:
Donnarumma isn’t just guarding the goal.
He’s guarding Italy’s future.
🧤 “The gloves are heavy. But so is the honor.” – Gianluigi Donnarumma
Related: Diogo Jota Then and Now