The legendary Italian goalkeeper Dino Zoff spoke about Gianluigi Donnarumma’s immense potential. He believes the AC Milan youngster has the talent to become “better” than himself.
Donnarumma just turned eighteen, but he is already seen as the future for Italy’s goalkeeper position. The player has made 60 appearances for AC Milan and is now regularly starting in the first team. He has also been capped twice for country, while the press has labeled him “Buffon’s successor”.
Dino Zoff, one of Italy’s most celebrated players, has praised Donnarumma. Zoff played 112 caps for Italy. During his career he cemented a reputation as one of the best players of all time.
“I see him even better than myself,” Zoff told Radio Anchi’io Sport. “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 and tries to improve, especially in his technical ability as some goalkeepers forget about [working on] it. For now, the outlook looks really great.”
The young goalkeeper only made his debut for Milan in October 2015. With a contract that runs until June 2018, many high-profile teams have declared their interest in signing the player. Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United and Juventus are following his progress closely, according to transfer rumors.
Zoff also talked about where he sees Donnarumma in the future.
“His future? He needs heart and reason. He shouldn’t think about any particular changes, he’s already in the heavens. I think he’d be better served to stay at Milan, then in a few years, conclusions can be made. He’s already at a great team.”
As for the player himself, he has made no comments to suggest he has the intention of leaving. Donnarumma is now living the dream of playing for his favorite team, as a self declared Milan fan. Mino Raiola, the player’s agent, has however hinted towards the possibility of taking the player to a larger club.
Milan are without a doubt one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs. However their reputation has slipped in recent years. In the last three years the team has failed to qualify in Europe. Furthermore the team sits only seventh in the Serie A. Old rivals such as Juventus, Roma and Napoli are often outperforming them.
Under manager Vincenzo Montella there is a sense of progress at AC Milan. Several players, such as Donnarumma or Carlos Bacca, have put in impressive performances. Also, Sino-Europe Sports (SES) group is negotiating a takeover of AC Milan. The new deal would bring important investments that could help Milan compete once again for the top spots in Serie A.
