AC Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma Puts on Goalkeeping Masterclass in the Derby della Madonnina

​AC Milan goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma stole the headlines as his side earned a derby day victory over bitter rivals Inter. The 16-year-old was heavily involved in a number of incidents, most notably rushing off his line to smother Inter’s Eder in possession after a sliced clearance, but his challenge wasn't deemed a foul, much to the annoyance of opposing manager Roberto Mancini who was sent to the stands in the clash.

But after timing a number of challenges correctly and keeping a clean sheet in the process, Gianluigi Donnarumma came away with a lot of credit for helping the Rossoneri to victory. He became the club’s first-choice between the sticks this season, making 14 league appearances so far, and has made the most of his unprecedented opportunity.

Goalkeepers are rarely dropped in the deep end at such a young age, but such has been the nature of Donnarumma ‘s development that manager Sinisa Mihajlovic had to option but to start him in the Italian Serie A. His form has led to transfer rumours, with Manchester United rumoured to be lining up a £30m bid for his services, but the teenager says he’s happy at the San Siro.

Given his rise to prominence at such a young age, Gianluigi Donnarumma is destined to have a successful career. Unless Milan can finally start challenging for major honours again, he could stay at the club for a long time, but he’s sure to have trophy-hunting outfits trying to convince him to make the switch. At 16, Donnarumma potentially has more than 20 years at the top, and it’s a frightening concept to how good he could become when he’s in his peak.

With the teen shining in the Derby della Madonnina, Donnarumma is a name that could be fondly remembered by the supporters if he goes on to become a long-serving player.