Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma gave an interview to UEFA ahead of his side's trip to London to face Arsenal on Matchday 2 of the UEFA Champions League. He spoke of his love for the capital club and the challenges that await his side on the European stage.
Gianluigi, how would you describe your development since arriving in Paris?
"I've grown and developed a lot. Because when you leave your comfort zone, a lot of things inevitably change. PSG have always had their eye on me, and wanted to sign me for a long time. And when I arrived here, I immediately felt at home, and everyone did everything they could to make sure I fitted in perfectly."
There's a real sense of family in Paris...
‘’Absolutely, I feel very good here, the fans love me a lot and I will always give everything on the pitch to repay them. The club works a lot on this family spirit. They try to create a group, not just between the players, but also with everyone who works around the team. It really is like one big family."
What does it mean to you to be playing for Paris Saint-Germain?
"Wearing this shirt is simply incredible. A club like PSG brings so much to the table on every level, and I hope to stay here as long as possible and make history. One of my goals is to have a career here as long as Marquinhos'! I know it's a lot of games, but I hope I can do it. To become a leader and help those who join the club in the future."
Once again, the club is competing in the Champions League. What would it mean to you to win it?
"It would mean so much... But we often tell ourselves in the dressing room that it can't become an obsession. We wouldn't be doing ourselves any favours if that was all we thought about. You have to take a calm approach to matches, without feeling too much pressure. When you play football, that's a very important factor, and pressure never takes you very far."
In what frame of mind do you approach Champions League matches?
"We have to take each match one game at a time. And of course, our aim is to finish top of the league table. Finishing first would be exceptional. But we have to prepare game by game, and we'll see where we finish."
You'll be playing some great matches...
"When you play in the Champions League, you only play great matches. That's why we do what we do. We're footballers to experience these great moments and these great matches! These matches motivate us and give us strength. We shouldn't fear anyone, we have to make the most of these moments."