Donnarumma: City's Winning Mentality Remains Unshaken
Gianluigi Donnarumma has dismissed talk of a transition season at Manchester City, insisting the club's objective remains victory in every competition. Speaking at the club's training ground, the Italian goalkeeper reflected on the recent Manchester Derby win and the squad's determination to uphold its proud history.
City hold a perfect record after five league matches, a feat many did not anticipate following the departures of Pep Guardiola, Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Rodri. Despite the changes, Donnarumma is adamant that standards have not slipped.
Derby Victory Shows Character
Donnarumma praised his teammates for their resilience in the derby, even as they played a man down following Phil Foden's dismissal. He described the performance as sublime and highlighted the squad's capacity to react to difficult moments.
“We will give everything for this shirt, for this club that gives us so much and offers us so much great support. It has a great history, and we need to give a lot back to it.”
Rejecting the 'Transition' Label
The goalkeeper was clear that the word transition does not apply to this squad. He stated that the club's objective is to win and that a winning mentality is essential, regardless of the final outcome.
“We could reach the end of the season having won something, or having won nothing. But what's important is having a winning mentality, going out there and trying to win everything we possibly can,” he said.
New Leadership Group Takes Charge
Donnarumma is part of a newly formed leadership group alongside Ruben Dias, Erling Haaland and Marc Guehi. All four have won trophies at City and elsewhere, and they are tasked with driving standards for the new arrivals.
New signings Ayyoub Bouaddi, Elliot Anderson and Ilimian Ndiaye are settling in well, according to Donnarumma. He noted that adaptation takes time but expressed confidence in the squad's unity.
Arsenal Remain the Main Rivals
Donnarumma acknowledged Arsenal as a strong competitor, having edged City to the Premier League title last May. He accepted the disappointment but stressed that football demands resilience and competition.
“It's difficult, but that's football, that's life. You're not on your own. There are other strong teams, especially in the Premier League.”
Focus on the Season Ahead
When asked if City and Arsenal would again lead the title race, Donnarumma declined to speculate. He emphasised that the focus must remain on hard work and winning every match.
“Our focus right now has to be on working and trying to win every game. That has to be our objective. Whether we achieve it in the end or not, only time will tell,” he concluded.
City face Norwich City in the Carabao Cup third round on Thursday evening, with kick-off at 8pm.