PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma put forth another remarkable performance in the 1-0 victory against Arsenal during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals on Tuesday night. The Italian shot-stopper has been the subject of intense scrutiny, with opinions divided over his potential since he transitioned from AC Milan. Some regard him as a world-class keeper, while others doubt his capacity to perform in crucial matches, particularly in recent seasons.

Despite this, his current season efforts, especially on significant nights in the Champions League, confirm he is among the world’s elite goalkeepers. If PSG manages to secure a victory in the final match at home next week, a substantial part of the praise will be directed to Donnarumma, whose performances suggest he is experiencing the best moment of his career. There are also strong possibilities for him to be featured in the upcoming Ballon d’Or top ten, especially if PSG clinches the coveted European trophy.

PSG are one game away from eliminating their third English opponent in these Champions League knockouts 👀❌ pic.twitter.com/yICfrObeRz — CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 29, 2025

Having started his professional journey in Italy’s Serie A at just 16 with AC Milan, Donnarumma became a free agent in the summer of 2021, shortly before leading Italy to victory in the UEFA Euro 2020 final against England at Wembley, saving a decisive penalty against Bukayo Saka. That moment was pivotal in his career, though he faced challenges afterward, including criticism during his first season at PSG after a disastrous Champions League round of 16 against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.

PSG underwent significant transitions in both the team and coaching staff. Renowned players such as Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Kylian Mbappé have departed in recent years, yet Donnarumma chose to stay at the club that demonstrated the most interest after his contract with AC Milan expired. Former PSG director Leonardo, who had previously collaborated with Donnarumma at AC Milan, sought to bring him on board, encouraged by the player’s agent, Mino Raiola. Joining PSG was not an easy choice for the young talent, who was just 22 when he left the Italian giants. Many fans disapproved of his departure as a free agent, but Donnarumma has repeatedly showcased his resilience and maturity in the face of criticism.

Following the appointment of current director Luis Campos by PSG owner Nasser Al-Khelaifi, there was never doubt regarding the vision for Donnarumma, who was expected to assume a more significant role within the team. He embraced this challenge, working diligently and displaying newfound confidence throughout the ongoing season. He has consistently ranked among the best players in critical Champions League matches, committing only a handful of errors all season. In a crucial showdown against Liverpool in the Champions League round of 16, he saved two pivotal penalties at Anfield. Additionally, against Aston Villa in the quarterfinals’ second leg, he made three vital saves to help PSG reach the semifinals, and his crucial performance against Arsenal at the Emirates provided PSG with a one-goal lead heading into the second leg. Should PSG claim European triumph this season, Donnarumma’s contributions will be fundamental to their success.