Gianluigi Donnarumma reveals 'incredible' bromance with Erling Haaland after new goalkeeper was 'immediately welcomed' at Man City by prolific striker

Donnarumma made the perfect start at City after keeping a clean sheet on his Premier League debut in the 3-0 win over rivals Manchester United on Sunday. The Italy international made an excellent save to deny Bryan Mbeumo in the second half and was immediately embraced by Haaland, whose second-half double helped seal the victory for Pep Guardiola's side.

And now Donnarumma has opened up about the close relationship he and Haaland have been quick to forge, hailing the Norway international for playing a huge role in making him feel like he has been part of the City squad for "many years".

Speaking ahead of City's Champions League opener against Napoli on Thursday, Donnarumma said of Haaland: “Aside from being a fantastic player, one of the best in the world if not the best, he’s a fantastic person as well. That’s what makes him even better in a way, and I have an incredible relationship with him, he immediately welcomed me."

The instant bond between Donnarumma and his new City team-mates completes a major turnaround in fortunes after the shot-stopper was frozen out at PSG this summer. After helping the French giants claim their first Champions League crown in the 5-0 victory over Inter in May, the former Milan shot-stopper was replaced between the sticks by Lucas Chevalier following his move from Lille.

Donnarumma is set to make his first Champions League appearance for City when they entertain Serie A champions Napoli. Antonio Conte's men have made a strong start to the 2025-26 season, winning their first three league games against Sassuolo, Cagliari and Fiorentina.