Donnarumma’s Future at Manchester City: A Possible Return to Italy?

In a surprising turn of events, Gianluigi Donnarumma’s representative has suggested that the goalkeeper may consider leaving Manchester City to return to Italy. The 26-year-old, who completed a high-profile transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to the Premier League champions just last summer, was expected to solidify City’s defensive line for the foreseeable future. However, statements from his agent indicate that Donnarumma is already feeling a sense of longing for his home country.

During an interview with Italian broadcaster Rai, agent Mino Raiola provided an honest evaluation of Donnarumma’s initial half-season in Manchester. Although he emphasized that the goalkeeper is adapting well to the demands of English football and is pleased with the project led by Pep Guardiola, he left open the possibility of a future departure.

“Today at Manchester City, he is finding tranquility within the team and environment, and he appreciates the project immensely. He is also beginning to understand the English league,” Raiola remarked. “Recently, he jokingly mentioned that playing there for five or six years would be an adventure, but it was just a joke. However, if an opportunity arises to return to Italy, we will explore it.”

The financial realities surrounding such a move make it nearly impossible for Italian clubs in the current economic climate. Donnarumma’s transfer to City was part of a financial package that positions him among the top earners in football.

The details of last summer’s deal highlight the stark contrast between Premier League spending power and that of other European leagues. City paid a transfer fee of €35 million to PSG, but it is the player’s personal contract terms that are particularly striking. Donnarumma signed a five-year agreement that extends until June 30, 2030, which is reported to guarantee him around €80 million in fixed wages alone over the contract’s duration.

Beginning at an impressive €15 million net per season, his salary is set to increase incrementally, reaching €18 million net by the 2029-30 season. Additionally, the contract includes an extension option through 2031, potentially bringing his salary to €19 million for that extra year.

Further complicating any potential exit strategy is the lucrative bonus structure included in Donnarumma’s contract. City has incentivized his performance with an array of add-ons worth an additional €3 million per season, designed to ensure the Italian remains motivated across all competitions.

Essentially, this bonus system acts as a ‘goal bonus’ for a goalkeeper: maintain a strong defensive record, and the payment is secured. This arrangement underscores how highly City values his contributions and their commitment to retaining him as their primary goalkeeper. Consequently, departing from such a substantial financial package to return to Italy would necessitate a significant financial sacrifice.

Despite the considerable costs, the mere suggestion of a return has rekindled interest from some of Italy’s largest clubs. Prior to City’s decisive acquisition last summer, both Juventus and Inter Milan had reportedly inquired about Donnarumma’s availability amidst his deteriorating relationship with PSG.

Inter, in search of a long-term successor in goal, and Juventus, who have historically desired Italy’s number one goalkeeper, remain the most plausible destinations should a transfer materialize. Raiola’s remarks have effectively alerted these clubs: the player is open to a return, even if the financial landscape currently poses challenges.

While a move in January or even summer 2026 seems overly ambitious, the groundwork has been laid. Should City’s dominance falter, or if Donnarumma determines that lifestyle considerations outweigh financial incentives, the Italian giants will be poised to welcome their national hero back home.