Donnarumma has slumped with a save rate of only 58%

Donnarumma arrived at the Etihad with the expectation of becoming a world- class stopper.

In the early morning of December 3, Man City defeated Fulham 5-4 in a crazy match in round 14 of the Premier League. Despite the victory, attention was focused on Gianluigi Donnarumma, who continued to be the focus of criticism.

According to data published by analytics site Statman Dave , this goalkeeper has only successfully saved 58% of the shots he has faced this season, ranking 21st out of 23 goalkeepers in statistics. Only Alisson (56%) and Bayindir (54%) have lower parameters.

That number is surprising, because Donnarumma came to Etihad with the expectation of becoming a world-class stopper. The maturity from Milan, the reputation at PSG and the international experience made the 26-year-old goalkeeper considered an upgrade for Pep Guardiola's goal. But instead of being a launching pad, the fierce Premier League environment exposed weaknesses in his ability to react, judge situations and handle pressure.

City’s signature high-pressing system also had a significant impact, creating huge gaps behind the defence and exposing Donnarumma to quality shots. The constant exposure to quick transitions meant he had little time to make amends. His performance against Fulham, which saw nine goals, fuelled the debate as City’s defence was repeatedly breached.

Donnarumma in Man City's 5-4 win over Fulham on the morning of December 3.

However, a low save percentage does not mean that all the responsibility lies with Donnarumma. Man City this season is no longer as solid as the familiar image: they press without speed, the defense is no longer cohesive and vulnerable when the opponent exploits the center back. When the goal is placed in a constant state of alarm, a goalkeeper finds it difficult to maintain perfect stats.

The fact that Alisson, once considered a role model at Liverpool, is behind Donnarumma in save percentage also shows how tough the Premier League has been this season. It reflects the overall situation rather than just one individual failing.

However, the way Statman Dave concluded with the word “flop” shows the pressure that is ready to crush any goalkeeper playing for a big club. Donnarumma has the technical foundation, the reach and the courage to prove himself in Europe. But in a league where errors are exaggerated, the Man City goalkeeper is forced to improve immediately. The 58% rate is a clear warning: Etihad has no room for slack, especially for a goalkeeper expected to be the fulcrum of a team that lives on championship ambitions.

Source: https://znews.vn/donnarumma-tut-doc-voi-ty-le-cuu-thua-chi-58-post1608127.html