Donnarumma speaks out after Italy's exit

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Gazeta Esportiva.com

·1 April 2026

Donnarumma speaks out after Italy's exit

Italy’s goalkeeper and captain, Gianluigi Donnarumma, opened up on social media this Wednesday, one day after the national team’s failed attempt to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Tears and frustration after elimination

“Last night, after the match, I cried,” wrote the Manchester City goalkeeper in a long social media post, reflecting on the penalty shootout loss away to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a result that left Italy — four-time world champions (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006) — out of the World Cup for the third straight edition.

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“I cried, disappointed that I was unable to lead Italy to the place it deserves. I cried because of the immense sadness I feel, alongside my teammates, of whom I am very proud to be captain,” he continued.

“After a disappointment like this, you have to find the courage to turn the page once again. And that requires a great deal of strength, passion and conviction,” insisted the former Milan and Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper.

Hope despite recent history

Lastly, Donnarumma left a message of hope for the Italian fans.

“Continuing to believe is always the driving force that pushes us forward. Because life knows how to reward those who give their all, holding nothing back. And that is exactly where we must start again. Together. Once again. To return Italy to the place it deserves,” concluded the 27-year-old player.

The goalkeeper has made 81 appearances for the ‘Azzurra’, having won Euro 2021 with his national team, but for now still has no World Cup appearances on his résumé.

*By AFP.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.