Milan coach Stefano Pioli and goalkeeper Mike Maignan were both asked about the impending return of Gianluigi Donnarumma to San Siro when Paris Saint-Germain visit in the Champions League on Tuesday, with the latter insisting that there ought to be a positive reception for the former Rossoneri academy graduate.
Donnarumma parted ways with the Rossoneri after 251 competitive appearances by the age of 22, joining PSG on a free transfer in the summer of 2021.
Though still Italy’s first choice ‘keeper under Luciano Spalletti, there are still some feelings of tension between Donnarumma and the Milan supporters over his departure two years ago.
Maignan, Donnarumma’s replacement, was on media duty on Monday afternoon, and told those in attendance at the pre-PSG press conference that there should be a positive reception from those in the stands.
“It will be a very warm welcome tomorrow,” Maignan said. “I think he (Donnarumma) is an excellent ‘keeper and he has started the season really well. He is a top class goalkeeper and he shows it in every game.”
When Pioli was asked about Donnarumma, however, his focus remained on the fan’s support for their own team.
He said: “I believe that the fans will do everything to support our team if we put in a proper Milan performance. They have a great love for our team’s colours. It’s up to us to pay the supporters back and make San Siro a difficult place to play.”