“He’s the best in the world, except when… Italy lights up France after Arsenal vs PSG”

The lights at the Emirates Stadium had barely gone out when the conversation began—not about tactics, not about team formations, and not even about Kylian Mbappé. Instead, the spotlight turned squarely onto one man: Gianluigi Donnarumma. And once again, the debate raged not just within the borders of France but spilled over into Italy, igniting a clash of perspectives that has been simmering ever since the goalkeeper joined Paris Saint-Germain.

On the night of the Champions League semi-final first leg, Donnarumma was colossal. With Arsenal piling on the pressure, it was the Italian shot-stopper who stood tall. Two world-class saves. Impeccable positioning. A clean sheet. A narrow but precious 1-0 victory away from home. He did everything a world-class keeper is expected to do in a high-stakes European night.

Yet, somehow, the headlines in France weren’t celebratory. Instead, they circled the same old criticisms: his weaknesses during aerial exits, his decision-making when coming off his line. It was déjà vu. An echo of doubts repeated every time PSG relies on him. But this time, Italy had enough.

Former Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta came forward to break the noise. “The French say that Donnarumma is not the best when he has to get out of his line. Maybe they’re right,” he said. “But they forget to mention he’s the best in the world at everything else.” A pointed remark, yes—but one that resonated deeply across Italian sports circles.

The comment wasn’t just a defense. It was a sharp indictment of how the French media have chosen to portray one of the brightest talents in world football. In Italy, Donnarumma is more than just a goalkeeper—he’s a national symbol. From his early teenage heroics at AC Milan to his Euro 2020 glory, he has long been a point of pride.

Back in France, however, the relationship has been anything but smooth. Since arriving in Paris, he’s faced relentless scrutiny. He replaced a fan-favorite, Keylor Navas. He made mistakes—just like any other keeper. But while others are forgiven, Donnarumma’s errors often seem exaggerated, replayed, and dissected until they define him.

Against Arsenal, his performance was near-flawless. Sky Italia rated him 8 out of 10. Gazzetta dello Sport called him “imperial”. Tuttosport praised his maturity and command. But still, French pundits highlighted his footwork, his hesitance on a late cross, his reluctance to punch. Not his saves. Not his leadership. Not his role in the victory.

What makes this all the more perplexing is that Donnarumma’s stats remain impressive. This season alone, he has kept 11 clean sheets across all competitions. That’s more than respectable, especially in a team that often leaves its backline exposed. His shot-stopping ability is among the best in Europe, and his calm under pressure is unmatched.

But the friction may go beyond football. In Italy, Donnarumma’s stoic demeanor is interpreted as composure. In France, it’s read as coldness. In Italy, his quiet focus is admired. In France, it seems distant. These cultural differences may be at the heart of the misalignment between the player and his Parisian public.

Even Italian media outlets are beginning to voice their frustration. They see a pattern—what some are calling a systematic dismantling of Donnarumma’s reputation in France. Every misstep is a scandal. Every hesitation is an excuse for criticism. It’s wearing thin.

Meanwhile, back in Italy, the narrative is crystal clear. Donnarumma is still considered the best of his generation. Buffon’s heir. A player whose talent, size, and vision make him irreplaceable. And for them, what he did at the Emirates was confirmation of his elite status.

Costacurta’s words carry weight not just because of his pedigree but because they echo what many Italians have felt for months: Donnarumma is held to an impossibly high standard in France. A standard that no other player is subjected to—especially not when they help win Champions League knockout matches away from home.

This isn’t just about Donnarumma anymore. It’s about how players are perceived through cultural lenses. About how media narratives are shaped. About how success is often overshadowed by personal biases. Donnarumma may not be perfect, but the idea that he’s consistently undermined for minor flaws speaks volumes.

In the end, the numbers speak louder than opinions. And the scoreboard at the Emirates said it all: Arsenal 0, PSG 1. Clean sheet. Advantage Paris. Thanks to Donnarumma.

And perhaps the last word should go to the man himself—or at least to those defending him. “You can talk about his flaws,” Costacurta said, “but don’t forget the qualities. They’re what win you games.”

So next time Gianluigi Donnarumma steps between the posts, whether it’s at the Parc des Princes or under the lights in Europe, remember that perfection may be elusive—but greatness is undeniable. Even if some prefer to look the other way.