Gattuso defends Donnarumma after abuse from Milan fans
Manager Gennaro Gattuso came to Gianluigi Donnarumma's defence after the young goalkeeper was the target of abuse from AC Milan's ultras in the wake of a report suggesting he's eager to leave the club.
Ahead of Milan's 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona on Wednesday, a section of supporters jeered the 18-year-old during warm-ups and unfurled a banner that read: "Moral violence, €6 million per year and the signing of a parasite brother? Go now. Our patience is finished."
The reaction from the hardcore supporters was in reference to a report that indicated Donnarumma wanted his contract annulled after he was "forced" to sign the agreement last summer.
The Italian goalkeeper appeared to be in tears before the match as cameras captured teammate Leonardo Bonucci consoling him in the dressing room.
For his part, Gattuso praised the young goalkeeper's handling of the difficult situation.
"He's an 18-year-old kid, of course he was shaken. I can only thank him for what he's doing," the manager said, according to Andy Charles of Sky Sports.
"For his age, he's the best goalkeeper in the world right now. You can tell from his face he's not happy, but I have known a great athlete and great kid. He will have my protection, for all the protection I can give.
"If the club says it doesn't need to sell anyone, nor wants to, then why should we even talk about this?"
The impact on Donnarumma after the report was published was so great that Gattuso allowed him to skip training. The former AC Milan midfielder added that he's yet to hear Donnarumma demand an exit.
"I respect the fans, but he sulked at me for four days because I left him at home for the first time in seven months," Gattuso said. "He never skipped a training session, let alone a game.
"People need to understand whether Gigio really does want to go or if he wants to stay. I can say I'm working with a great athlete and professional.
"I am the coach of Milan, so I can talk about the lad, the athlete, but nothing else. Gigio has not told me personally that he wants to leave. If he did, that would be different."