Could Paul Scholes Be Right? The Star Man Utd Should Have Signed Before Facing Man City!

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has expressed his belief that the club missed an opportunity to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma, who recently joined Manchester City. With the goalkeeper's move to City for £26 million after being deemed surplus to requirements at Paris Saint-Germain, Scholes argues that Donnarumma would have been a perfect fit for United, especially given their current goalkeeping struggles.

Last updated: 29 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Gianluigi Donnarumma joined Manchester City for £26 million after leaving PSG.
• Paul Scholes believes Donnarumma would have been an ideal signing for Manchester United.
• United’s goalkeeping situation remains uncertain, with poor performances from current keepers.
• Donnarumma's ball-playing ability has faced scrutiny, raising questions about his fit for Pep Guardiola's style.
• United ultimately signed Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on deadline day.

Context of the Transfer Market

The summer transfer window of 2023 was marked by high-profile moves and significant player exchanges across Europe. Donnarumma's transfer to Manchester City came shortly after Ederson was sold to Fenerbahce, leaving a gap that City quickly filled. The signing of Donnarumma reflects City's strategy of bolstering their squad with top talent, despite questions surrounding the goalkeeper's suitability for their playing style.

Why Donnarumma Would Have Been Ideal for United

Having established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Donnarumma's accolades include winning the UEFA Euro 2020 with Italy, where his shot-stopping skills and composure under pressure were on full display. Scholes noted that for a fee of approximately £40 million, Donnarumma represented excellent value in today’s market, especially for a club like United that is currently struggling in the goalkeeping department.

With Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir facing difficulties early in the season, United's need for a reliable goalkeeper is evident. Donnarumma's experience on the international stage could have brought much-needed stability to the United defence.

Current Goalkeeping Situation at Manchester United

As of now, Manchester United's goalkeeping situation appears precarious. Andre Onana, signed from Inter Milan, has had a rocky start to his tenure at Old Trafford, leading to scrutiny regarding his performances. Similarly, Altay Bayindir, another recent signing, has struggled to showcase his talents. In light of these challenges, the club sought alternatives on transfer deadline day.

Manchester United's Deadline Day Decisions

On transfer deadline day, Manchester United engaged in talks with several goalkeepers, including Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez. Reports suggest that terms were agreed upon, but the move ultimately fell through. Instead, United opted to sign Senne Lammens from Belgian club Royal Antwerp for an undisclosed fee. This decision raised eyebrows, given the club’s urgent need for a proven shot-stopper.

Donnarumma's Move to Manchester City

Upon joining Manchester City, Gianluigi Donnarumma expressed excitement about the opportunity. In his official statement, he recognised the prestige of playing for a club filled with world-class talent and under the management of Pep Guardiola, whom he described as one of the greatest in football history. Donnarumma's arrival at City has been met with anticipation, although questions regarding his fit within Guardiola's tactical framework remain.

Potential Challenges at City

Despite his outstanding shot-stopping ability, Donnarumma's ball-playing skills have come under scrutiny. Guardiola's tactical philosophy demands a goalkeeper who can effectively participate in build-up play, akin to playing in central midfield. Scholes highlighted this concern, indicating that Donnarumma's limitations in this area may hinder his effectiveness at City. The manager typically seeks keepers who can contribute to possession and play a crucial role in initiating attacks.

What Happens Next?

The implications of Donnarumma's signing for Manchester City and United's missed opportunity could have lasting effects on both clubs. With Donnarumma now at the Etihad, City solidifies their goalkeeping unit, potentially leaving United to grapple with their ongoing goalkeeper dilemma. As both teams continue through the season, the performances of each goalkeeper will be closely scrutinised, particularly in high-pressure matches.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how both clubs fare with their respective goalkeepers. United is now banking on Senne Lammens to deliver results in goal, while City will rely on Donnarumma to adapt to Guardiola’s tactical demands. Each decision made during this transfer window will be analysed as fans and pundits alike evaluate the effectiveness of their clubs' choices.

In a league as competitive as the Premier League, the repercussions of transfer decisions can shape the future of clubs significantly. With Manchester United and Manchester City both striving for success, the battle for supremacy will continue, with goalkeeping performances potentially being a deciding factor.

FAQs

Why did Manchester United not sign Donnarumma?

Manchester United opted for Senne Lammens instead, despite having discussions about signing Emiliano Martinez. The club's decision may reflect their strategic priorities and budget constraints.

What are Donnarumma's strengths as a goalkeeper?

Donnarumma is renowned for his exceptional shot-stopping abilities, particularly in one-on-one situations. He has also shown leadership qualities on the pitch, especially during his time with the Italian national team.

How does Guardiola's system affect goalkeepers?

Guardiola's system demands goalkeepers to be adept with their feet, capable of playing out from the back, and participating in build-up play, similar to a midfielder. This can create pressure on traditional goalkeepers who may not excel in these areas.

What are the challenges for Manchester United's current goalkeepers?

Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir have faced scrutiny for their performances, which has led to questions about their ability to perform under pressure and maintain consistency in matches.

How much did Donnarumma cost Manchester City?

Donnarumma joined Manchester City for a fee of £26 million, which is considered modest for a goalkeeper of his calibre, especially given the current market dynamics.