Former England and Arsenal legend David Seaman has criticised modern goalkeeping celebrations, singling out Gianluigi Donnarumma for what he feels are exaggerated reactions to routine saves.
Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast with Adebayo Akinfenwa, via Goal, the ex-Arsenal and England goalkeeper said he is not a fan of keepers celebrating every stop, even when the effort does not warrant it.
“The ones that really celebrate shots… Donnarumma, who’s one of my favourites at the moment, was doing some massive celebrations after some half-decent saves,” Seaman said.
“When they do that, I’m like: ‘Come on, you’re better than that.’
Seaman annoyed with Donnarumma celebration
Donnarumma signed for Manchester City in the summer after being frozen out of PSG, with the Ligue 1 giants signing Lucas Chevalier to replace him.
“When I see goalkeepers who’ve just signed for a club and they’re giving it all that after a save, and it’s not even a really good one, I think: ‘What are you doing? Celebrate when it really means something.’ That really annoys me.”
Seaman also discussed the evolution of the position and gave his thoughts on current David Raya, who is playing a key role as Arsenal chase Premier League success.
The former England No.1 suggested that while modern keepers are more involved with the ball at their feet, the fundamentals of the role, positioning, decision-making and composure, remain just as important as ever.
When did David Seaman become a legend ?
First thing I remember when I hear David Seaman is Ronladinho’s goal from a far free kick against England in World Cup.
I guess he didn’t make saves worth celebrating during his career.
Donnarumma already has far better career than Seaman’s.
Seaman was a great goalkeeper.
Modern footballer5 can’t win. They remain calm and collected – aw, they lack pa55ion, and the game is gone. They 5how pa55ion by celebrating – they’re over celebrating and need to be more profe55ional.
Also. When 5omeone mention5 5eaman, the fir5t thing I think of i5 Nayim and 5eaman sat on his back5ide in5ide hi5 own goal after getting lobbed from 45 yard5.
To be called a legend, you need to win an important title or two. I don’t remember Seaman’s title with England..
Could be he is right but he is not the one who should be making these remarks.
Donnarumma is actually celebrating that he makes more money, and will continue to make more money than Seaman did…but seriously, I think footballers copy this from other sports where it is also exaggerated at times like basketball and American football. I agree with Seaman to an extent.