“Last Night, After the Match, I Cried”: Gianluigi Donnarumma’s emotional message after Italy misses 2026 World Cup

In a raw and heartfelt Instagram post, Italy national team captain Gianluigi Donnarumma has opened up about the immense pain following the Azzurri’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Manchester City goalkeeper, who has been a pillar for the national side, admitted he was overcome with emotion after Tuesday’s dramatic penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Last night, after the match, I cried,” Donnarumma wrote. “I cried with disappointment at not being able to take Italy to where it deserves to be. I cried because of the immense sadness I’m feeling together with the entire Azzurri squad — of which I am proud to be captain — and which, I know, at this moment, you too are feeling, supporters of our national team.”

The 27-year-old shot-stopper revealed that words felt inadequate in the face of such a crushing blow, yet he wanted to share a powerful message of resilience with the Italian fans.

“Today, words serve little purpose, it’s true,” he continued. “But there is one thing I feel deeply and that I want to share with you… after such a great disappointment, we must find the courage to turn the page, once again. And for that, it takes a lot of strength, passion, and conviction.”

Donnarumma ended on a note of hope and unity, emphasizing that belief and collective effort will be key to Italy’s future resurgence.

This latest setback means Italy will miss the World Cup for the third consecutive timea historic low for one of football’s most storied nations. The defeat in Zenica has left players, fans, and the entire Italian football community in shock and mourning.