Ahead of AC Milan's clash with club rivals Inter Milan in Serie A, the Rossoneri's goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had given an exclusive interview to Bein Sports France, where he has been inevitably asked about Derby della Madonnina, and many other thins.
My first derby?
"I was young and I only had a few matches of experience. After the third goal, I felt something emotionally strong, the explosion of joy from the public, the tension of such a match, winning by such a big margin made me ecstatic".
What does mean to play for AC Milan?
"It means playing for a big club, and aiming for leading the league all the time, what we have not managed to do in recent years. Our goal is to regain our place. So playing for this club is a dream come true. I will always do everything for this jersey, and when you love your club, that's the least you can do".
What are your memories on the first derby you played?
"I knew I was going play the day before, the eve was incredible, I thank Mihajlovic for giving me the chance, I was emotional. I called my family to attend the game. I was excited. but in the field, I was calm".
Zlatan said you are the strongest goalkeeper in the world?
"I thank him very much. Hearing these words from such a player makes me very proud. He is a role model to all of us, he helps us enormously...He is the first to arrive and the last to leave from Milanello. Once again it is a pride to hear this praise".
A word about the game against Crotone..Ibra scored his 500 and 501st goals, what did he say to you in the locker room?
"He was naturally very happy, and we told him he had to pay us something after this performance (he laughs). But seriously, he was very happy, and that's a bit normal. He set the bar very high, and only a champion like him can do it".
Do you have a model as a player?
"Of course. My role model has always been Gigi Buffon. He is an example for everyone. He's the greatest of all time! He is a model to follow for all goalies. I had the chance to train with him when I was very young in the national team... I wanted to be like him. He helps and advises a lot, and for that he is a model for everyone".