Gianluigi Donnarumma has firmly stated that he will not ask to leave Manchester City, even in the event of the club’s relegation. His agent, Enzo Raiola, has revealed that the Italian received the necessary assurances from the club and is calm about what lies ahead.
The potential relegation of City has been a hot topic following the ruling of an independent commission regarding financial misconduct. The Manchester club is contesting this verdict, and while definitive sanctions are yet to be imposed, uncertainty looms large.
This situation has raised questions about the futures of many key players at the club. Donnarumma, whose contract runs until 2030, is currently not contemplating a departure.
Raiola commented:
Will the situation surrounding Manchester City change anything? No, nothing changes for us or for Gigio.
There’s a lot of noise at times, but the club has talked to Gigio, and everyone is at ease.
There are important matches ahead against Liverpool and PSG, and the legal process will take its course afterwards.
But Gigio has received guarantees from Manchester City.
However, Donnarumma’s desire to stay may not be the sole determining factor. Should City indeed find themselves in the Championship or lower, the club will likely need to drastically reduce expenses.
Football journalist Nick Harris highlighted the team’s wage bill, which he estimates at around £400 million a year.
He explained:
If they land in the Championship, it will be interesting to see who among the players wants to stay.
But it’s not just about the players’ willingness. Manchester City simply cannot retain most of their current squad with such a wage bill.
With expenses around £400 million annually, the club would immediately face serious issues with the financial regulations of the English Football League. They will have to part with many players just to slash salaries.
Thus, Donnarumma’s position for now remains clear: the goalkeeper has no intention of leaving. Yet, if Manchester City does suffer relegation, the final decision may depend on the club's financial capabilities.
