Manchester CityGianluigi Donnarumma has been going through a difficult time for the last few weeks.
The goalkeeper has now vowed to make a fresh start.
Donnarumma was an important part of the Italy team that failed to make it to the World Cup. Bosnia defeated the Azzurri on penalties, despite the 26-year-old being a renowned shot-stopper.
He was also involved in a scrap after the game, which added fuel to the fire.
It's natural that Italy's struggles will affect their most important players. The Manchester City player has now opened up about his mental condition and how the last two weeks have been for him.
Manchester City players affected by the crisis
spoke to donnarumma sky italia Revealed about the Azzurri that he could not digest the World Cup failure for several days.
“In the first few days, I had a hard time digesting it, but the truth is that we need to start again, move forward and react.”
He urged everyone to move forward and focus on qualifying for the 2030 edition of the tournament.
"Now we have to move forward because, in recent years, despite disappointments, we have achieved important things. We have to react. It is difficult, but we need to move forward with strength and with the knowledge that Italy will return to greatness."
Additionally, the Manchester City player also hit back at claims the Italy star was demanding a bonus ahead of the Bosnia clash. He said that he did not ask for a single penny from the Italian Football Federation (Figc).
"As captain, I never asked for a single euro from the Italian national team. Like every competition, what the national team does is give a gift to the players who qualify for the tournament."
Elaborating on his disappointment, he said: “That is all. Nobody ever asked for anything from the federation: our gift was to go to the World Cup, and we could not succeed in it. What came out saddened me. I repeat, no one ever asked for a bonus.
Donnarumma's leadership shined
The fact that Donnarumma was trusted to speak out about Italy's problems shows that he is now seen as one of the most responsible players in the team. His credibility goes beyond the pitch and he is the real leader of the team.
This is very positive for Manchester City, who have no doubts about his qualities. He has made crucial saves in the Premier League and played a role in keeping them in the title race.
Pep Guardiola's side will be hoping to have recovered from the disappointment with Italy. They have hopes of winning and can't afford any mistakes from any team leader.
