“I don’t care” – Agent of Manchester City superstar hits back at public criticism | OneFootball

The representative of Manchester City’s newest recruit Gianluigi Donnarumma has hit back at criticism over his client’s supposed lacking ability with the ball at his feet.

Since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain, Donnarumma has been under the spotlight as he adapts to life in English football, with Pep Guardiola’s teams traditionally demanding technical excellence in possession across all positions.

As such the Italian’s footwork has been a frequent talking point for pundits and supporters alike, some questioning whether he can fully adjust to City’s style of building from the back, particularly in matches where opponents press with intent.

Nevertheless, Donnarumma’s pedigree speaks for itself as a European Championship winner with Italy and a former Golden Boy recipient, the 26-year-old has already amassed over 420 appearances despite his age. His towering frame, reflex saves, and commanding presence made him one of Europe’s most sought-after goalkeepers before City secured his signature.

And speaking during a new interview with Radio CRC, as relayed by TuttoMercatoWeb, the agent of Gianluigi Donnarumma has hit back at criticism of the Manchester City goalkeeper’s ability with the ball at his feet in light of his arrival at the Etihad stadium.

“There have been many coaches who have gone crazy for [Gianluigi] Donnarumma,” Vincenzo Raiola said this week. “In recent years, wherever he has gone, he has had his say. I don’t care about people’s criticism; even phenomena like Cristiano Ronaldo and [Lionel] Messi have been criticised.”

Raiola continued, “Those who criticise phenomena just want to show off. Controversy over his footwork? I don’t understand the reason for this criticism.

“Aside from the fact that I’ve never seen Gianluigi make any glaring mistakes with his feet, what matters most to me is the journey Gianluigi has had with us.

“This year marks 10 years of him playing at the highest level, and for a young player like him, this is a great achievement.”

The comments arrive at a crucial moment for Donnarumma, who is set to feature heavily for Manchester City this season despite the club’s signing of James Trafford, as Pep Guardiola reshapes his squad following Ederson’s departure to Fenerbahce.

Off the back of an impressive debut for the club in a 3-0 win over Manchester United, the Italian’s ability to handle the spotlight, recent criticism over his style between the posts, and showcase his qualities on the pitch was the ultimate start to life in England.

Looking forward, it remains to be seen whether Guardiola adapts certain tactical structures to accommodate Donnarumma’s strengths, or whether the former PSG man will evolve his game further to suit Manchester City’s trademark style.

What is now clear is that both the player and his camp are confident he can thrive in English football, regardless of outside noise. For Manchester City supporters, the prospect of having a truly world-class goalkeeper in his prime represents an exciting new chapter.