Article by Daniel Scorpie – Published on Wednesday, 01 April 2026 22:26 / Updated on Wednesday, 01 April 2026 22:30
Gianluigi Donnarumma (27 years old), the goalkeeper of the Italian national team, made a mea culpa after the failure suffered in the play-off with Bosnia-Herzegovina (1-1, 2-4 in penalty kicks). “Words are of little use, we need courage to move on”, is the post on the social account of the captain of the Azzurra Squad.
Gigio Donnarumma couldn't resist any penalty kicks, just as he couldn't prevent the goal that Sergej Barbarez's side sent Tuesday's game into extra time. Manchester City's goalkeeper couldn't hold back his tears and apologies after Italy's third consecutive elimination from the World Cup.
As captain and leader of the national team, Donnarumma reacted less than 24 hours after missing out on World Cup qualification, his second as a player, after the play-off against North Macedonia in 2021.
Donnarumma: “From here we have to start over. Once more! Together. Let's bring Italy back to where it deserves to be!”
“Last night, after the game, I cried. I cried because of the disappointment of not being able to lead Italy where it deserves to be. I also cried because of the enormous sadness I feel, along with the entire Squadra Azzurrawhose captain I am proud to be, and I know that, right now, you, the fans of the national team, feel it too,” Gigio wrote on Instagram.
Gianluigi Donnarumma arguing here with Nikola Vasilj // photo: Imago Images
Donnarumma continued: “Words are useless now, it's true. But I feel something strong inside me and I want to share it with you. After such a big disappointment, we have to find the courage to turn the page, once again.
And to do this requires a lot of strength, passion and conviction. Always believe; this is the driving force that fulfills us. Because life rewards those who give their all, without holding back. And from here we have to start over. Together. One more time. Let's bring Italy back to where it deserves to be.”
