Gianluigi Donnarumma: 'Manchester City were my first and only option'

Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and manager Pep Guardiola have been speaking to the press ahead of City's opening Champions League game against Napoli.

Donnarumma was asked about joining the blues on deadline day and he said that joining City was his 'first and only option' and the only thing he wanted.

The Etihad will be welcoming back one of the clubs biggest legends on Thursday when Kevin De Bruyne returns for the first time since his departure at the end of last season.

The return of 'King Kev'

Kevin De Bruyne, known as 'King Kev' by City fans will be a part of the Napoli team that travels to the Etihad on the opening week of the UEFA Champions League.

The Belgian international played a huge role in Manchester City's first and only Champions League winning campaign in 2023. However he was substituted off through injury in the first half of the final.

The 34-year-old will have a point to prove when he returns to Manchester as he admitted the club didn't want to offer him a new contract despite him being keen to stay at City.

Pep Guardiola was asked in his press conference about the return of one of City's greatest ever players and his start to the season in Italy.

"Of course it's nice to have him back! Players at that level adapt so quick, players at that level don't need much time to adapt and perform well."

Guardiola was also asked what De Bruyne has added to the Napoli team.

"His incredible talent, vision, passes, assists, goals, in the final third - he's unique!"

Pep also said that Mateo Kovacic will be available soon for selection, but didn't give anything else away involving other injured players such as John Stones or Omar Marmoush.

Guardiola also sarcastically responded to a question about whether City are one of the favourites to win the competition this year.

"Apparently we are not. Just enjoy the moment, the journey. We are happy to be here."

New signing Gianluigi Donnarumma accompanied Guardiola to the press conference as is the case ahead of Champions League matches.

Many of the questions were surrounding his move to City and leaving PSG after winning the treble.

"I'm happy to be here, happy to be here at Man City, happy to be a part of this fantastic team, a fantastic family, and give so much to these colours, to this badge, and I really hope to do it for many years!"

The Italian number one did speak about his new manager and was very positive and grateful in the way he responded.

"I thank the manager; for me it's an honour and a pride to be at Man City, and to have him as my coach! And his history, his football history, so I'm really excited to be here and have him as my coach. I definitely still have a lot to improve."