MILAN, March 31, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma
apologised after his early blunder saw AC Milan trail after just 33 seconds
in a 1-0 defeat to Sampdoria in Serie A on Saturday which could damage their
Champions League push.
Donnarumma picked up an Alessio Romagnoli back pass and put the ball
straight into the path of Sampdoria forward Gregoire Defrel as AC Milan fell
to a second straight defeat after a 3-2 derby loss to Inter before the
international break.
“Mistakes happen and I apologise to everyone,” said the 20-year-old.
“I’m sorry I affected the game. But it won’t be a mistake to break me down.
“I’ve gone through worse. Last year I went through a very rough time and if
I managed to get through that, I can get through this too.
“One mistake won’t destroy everything we’ve worked for.”
Sampdoria captain Fabio Quagliarella came over to reassure his fellow
Italian international.
“He’s a great friend, we spent the last 10 days together on international
duty and after the goal, he immediately came over to console me.”
Patrick Cutrone was twice denied the equaliser with a Krzysztof Piatek
header also saved.
Milan also had a late penalty appeal turned down after a VAR review for a
Nicola Murru tackle on Piatek.
Milan sporting director Leonardo insisted they are still firmly on track
for a Champions League return, as they sit fourth, two points behind Inter
who play Lazio on Sunday.
Roma are a further four points behind in fifth ahead of their game against
Napoli.
“Milan haven’t managed to reach the Champions League for six years, but
this team is finding its shape and we hope to achieve it,” the former club
legend added.