THe states that the departure of players from their respective clubs is unforgettable not only for fans but also for teammates. Gianluigi Donnarumma still remembers the two seasons he spent alongside Lionel Messi at Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the current Manchester City goalkeeper did not emphasize the Argentine’s footballing talent, rather it was the personal aspect that surprised him the most.
Donnarumma praises Messi
The 26-year-old goalkeeper (he turns 27 on February 25) left PSG in September 2025 and is now settled at Manchester City, managed by Josep Guardiola. However, while in France, he played two full seasons alongside the current Inter Miami captain (2021-2023).
In a chat with the English club’s official channels, Donnarumma candidly recalled his bond with Lionel and revealed that what surprised him most about the Argentine was not just his goals, trophies and feats with the ball, but his personality.
“It was great. I think he’s one of the best players in the history of football,” he began. “What struck me was that apart from being a football player, he’s a really great guy. He’s the best of all. He’s a really great person, a really great guy. And it was very important to play with him. It’s something I will cherish among the best memories of my life,” he added.
Both players are currently not at PSG. Donnarumma joined the Parisian club from AC Milan in 2021 and spent four seasons in goal for the club, but decided to join Premier League side Manchester City in 2025 after winning that year’s Champions League. He signed a five-year contract with the England team until June 2030.
On the other hand, Manchester City are unbeaten in 7 games (6 wins, 1 draw) and have an amazing record of 4 consecutive wins. They are currently preparing to face Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, February 21st.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi left PSG in June 2023, much earlier than Gianluigi, and joined Inter Miami of the American MLS. He recently extended his contract with the American club until the end of the 2028 season and is preparing for the start of the new season, when he will travel to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on February 21st to face Son Heung-min’s LAFC.
He has been seen training after suffering a muscle strain in his left hamstring, but his participation has not been officially confirmed.
