Josko Gvardiol reveals major boost brought by Gianluigi Donnarumma to Manchester City | OneFootball

Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol has detailed the goalkeeping traits of Gianluigi Donnarumma that makes life in the club’s defensive unit a lot easier.

The Croatian, who has become one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted options across both central defence and left-back roles, has witnessed first-hand the seamless transition of the Italian goalkeeper into the Manchester City squad.

Donnarumma arrived from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer to succeed Ederson as the club’s new No.1, usurping James Trafford in the process, and his performances have quickly earned widespread admiration across the dressing room.

Donnarumma’s integration into Pep Guardiola’s demanding system was one of the summer’s biggest talking points. Known for his commanding presence and elite shot-stopping, the Italian international was also tasked with adapting to Manchester City’s intricate build-up play – a trait the Catalan coach demands from his goalkeepers.

Yet according to those around the squad, his adaptation has been swift and smooth, underlining his readiness to handle Premier League intensity and tactical expectations.

City’s defence, often requiring composure under pressure and ability to control possession, has flourished with Donnarumma’s addition. His communication and confidence have visibly enhanced the backline’s cohesion, and players like Gvardiol have felt the benefits of that presence directly on the pitch.

Speaking after Manchester City’s 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund with Hayters TV, Josko Gvardiol not only credited the abilities of Gianluigi Donnarumma, but also the club’s tendency to recruit top-level shot-stoppers in recent memory.

“Man City as a club in the past have always they had really good goalkeepers. Gigi is one of them as well. He adapted really quick and that’s what I think is really important,” said Gvardiol.

“I know when I joined Man City, how long it took me to adapt to the league, to all the competition. We are all happy that he’s part of our team and he’s been doing good as well,” he continued.

“It’s not just about him, it’s about everyone in the team. I think we can do even better. The good thing I see is that we fight for each other, we work for each other, we communicate even more than before.

“Also, it’s much easier when you have a goalkeeper like Gigi. He’s really good on the ball, especially his height. He’s not afraid to come out of the line. I think he’s important for us.”

Josko Gvardiol’s words reflect a growing sense of unity and trust within Pep Guardiola’s squad, especially as Manchester City continue to evolve tactically following several high-profile squad changes.

Gianluigi Donnarumma’s early influence has already mirrored that of Ederson’s arrival from Portuguese giants Benfica in 2017 – a signing that revolutionised the club’s defensive identity and style of play.

Looking ahead, Donnarumma’s combination of experience, leadership, and technical ability could prove central to Manchester City’s ongoing ambitions, both domestically and in Europe. His partnership with defenders like Gvardiol is still developing, but signs suggest a defensive unit capable of rivalling the club’s best in recent history.

As Manchester City chase more silverware under Pep Guardiola, the chemistry between goalkeeper and backline will remain vital. And if early signs are anything to go by, Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival has already given the club exactly what they needed.