We continue our top 100 players 21 and under with the World Class category. These players are grouped by talents who who are capable of one day challenging for the Ballon d’Or.
Name: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Club: AC Milan
Age: 19
Position: Goalkeeper
Strengths: Reflexes, shot stopping, positioning, anticipation
Weaknesses: Attitude, distribution under pressure, claiming crosses
Style: It’s not only the fact he has the same first name as one of the game’s finest ever goalkeepers that has seen Gianluigi Donnarumma draw comparisons to Gigi Buffon, but there are certain similarities in style between the two. Donnarumma has already shown an incredible shot-stopping ability, combining quick reflexes with his huge frame – the Italian is 196 centimeters tall – to make some remarkable saves, but it’s also his excellent positioning that helps him pull off the sublime. The 19-year-old is also excellent in coming off his line, not only to anticipate the flight of the ball well when required, but also to close down the angle sharply when the opposing striker is through on goal. With his height, Donnarumma is able to command his penalty area well, but the Italian can certainly improve his ability to claim crosses confidently, rather than try to punch the ball clear, meaning the pressure on his team isn’t fully relieved. With over 130 appearances for Milan and 10 caps for Italy, the youngster has also gained invaluable experience in his early years, something rarely afforded to teenage goalkeepers, but that maturity has been lacking off the pitch, with his contract saga last season an unnecessary distraction at such a young age.
What’s been said about him:
Dida: “He has great talent and I think he can do more than I did with Milan’s colours.”
Gianluigi Buffon: “At a European level he’s the youngest and it’s normal that there’s curiosity surrounding him. He’s a lad with extraordinary skills.”
Dino Zoff: “He’s doing extraordinary things, his future is open to a fabulous career. Donnarumma’s start really gives great hope, my only advice for him is that he remains humble.”
Forecast for 2019: After all of the controversy surrounding a potential Milan exit, followed by him signing a new contract, Donnarumma would be well advised keeping his focus and enjoying a rather more relaxed summer in 2019. Should Milan miss out on European football however, Donnarumma once again may look to seal a move away, and there is sure to be interest from around Europe if his high-level performances continue. Already a starter for Italy under Roberto Mancini, Donnarumma looks set to follow in the footsteps of Buffon and make himself the long-term number one for his country.
