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WILL GIANLUIGI DONNARUMMA PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Gianluigi Donnarumma is one of those names that already resonates as a legend, even though he's only 26 years old. A Euro 2020 champion, a star for PSG, and a pillar of the Italian national team, many wonder if we'll see him at the 2026 World Cup. But... will Italy even qualify for the tournament? Will Gigi be the starting goalkeeper? In this article, we'll take a look at his current situation, the Azzurri's prospects heading into the World Cup, and some interesting facts about the goalkeeper who made his Serie A debut at just 16.

Donnarumma's current status at club and national team


Gianluigi Donnarumma has cemented his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. After his controversial departure from AC Milan, he has found stability at PSG, where he remains the Parisian team's number one. His technical and emotional development has been remarkable, especially in high-pressure situations.


2024/25 season at PSG


This season has been key for Gigi. He has started 38 matches, keeping a clean sheet in 17 of them. He averages 3.8 saves per game and has an 80% save percentage, one of the highest among goalkeepers in top European leagues.


  • 38 games played (Ligue 1 and Champions League)

  • 17 clean sheets

  • 80% save percentage

  • 94% short pass accuracy

  • 4 penalties saved


Beyond the statistics, his leadership in the locker room has also grown. He is one of the team's captains and has shown tactical maturity, especially in key Champions League matches.


With the Italian national team


Since 2018, Donnarumma has been Italy's undisputed starter. He has 62 caps for the Azzurri and was the undisputed star of Euro 2020, where he was named Player of the Tournament. In the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, he has been a wall, conceding only 5 goals in 8 matches.


  • 62 matches played with Italy

  • 26 clean sheets

  • Champion and MVP of Euro 2020

  • Only 5 goals conceded in 8 qualifying matches


Everything indicates that, if Italy qualifies, Donnarumma will be the undisputed starting goalkeeper. And if there are penalties... you know what can happen.


Will Italy qualify for the 2026 World Cup?


The big question isn't whether Donnarumma will play... but whether Italy will even go. The Azzurri missed the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, something unthinkable for a four-time world champion. But this time, it seems they've learned their lesson.


Situation in the European qualifiers


Italy has been placed in a tough group alongside England, Ukraine, and North Macedonia (their conqueror in 2022). However, they have secured key points such as the draw at Wembley (1-1) and a 2-0 victory against Ukraine in Rome.


  • 2nd in the group, behind England

  • 7 goals for, 4 against

  • 3 matches won, 2 drawn and 1 lost


With this performance, Italy has a high chance of qualifying directly or, at least, securing a playoff spot. The difference this time is that the group seems more focused and less overconfident. Furthermore, Luciano Spalletti has managed to give the team a clear identity since his arrival.


Donnarumma's Role


Donnarumma is the undisputed guardian of the Italian goal. In every training camp, his name is first on the list. The defense is built around him, and his voice is listened to by both veterans and emerging youngsters. Moreover, he is one of the few Italian players with consistent international experience.


Without a doubt, if Italy goes to the 2026 World Cup, they will do so with Donnarumma as their defensive stalwart. And with a thirst for revenge, after missing out on Qatar 2022.


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Curiosities and future of the Italian goalkeeper


Donnarumma is not just any goalkeeper. He has a story that makes him unique: he debuted in Serie A at 16, was both idol and villain at Milan, reinvented himself in Paris, and continues to write his legend. Here are some interesting facts you probably didn't know.


Things you didn't know about Gigi


  • He's 1.96 meters tall, but as a child he wanted to be a striker.

  • His brother, Antonio Donnarumma, was also a goalkeeper for Milan.

  • He's a tennis fanatic and often plays on his days off.

  • He was the youngest goalkeeper to debut in Milan's history.

  • At Euro 2020, he didn't concede a single penalty.


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