Manchester City and Italy international goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma has officially married Alessia Elefante, his childhood sweetheart, marking a significant personal milestone for the 26-year-old shot-stopper. The couple, who have known each other since childhood in their hometown of Castellammare di Stabia, attended the same school before their romantic relationship began in 2016 — the same period in which Donnarumma was cementing his status as one of European football’s most promising young talents at AC Milan.
Donnarumma announced the wedding on his official Instagram account, posting a series of wedding photographs alongside a caption that drew immediate comparisons to the language of football transfers: “Long-term contract signed.” The post resonated strongly with football supporters, rapidly gaining traction across social media platforms. Prominent transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano added to the moment by responding with his widely recognised catchphrase, “Here we go,” in reference to the playful framing of the announcement.
The couple’s engagement began in late 2024, while Donnarumma was still contracted to French club Paris Saint-Germain. After approximately two years as an engaged couple, the wedding finalised their commitment. For the ceremony, the pair chose a blend of contemporary and traditional aesthetics. Donnarumma opted for a tobacco-coloured suit paired with a casual crew-neck shirt, while Elefante wore a non-traditional white ensemble consisting of palazzo trousers and a matching top. According to reports, the venue was decorated extensively with white and pink roses, consistent with the theme established during their engagement.
Elefante, who works professionally as an interior designer, has been a consistent presence throughout Donnarumma’s career trajectory. She accompanied the goalkeeper from Milan to Paris following his high-profile move to PSG in 2021 — a transfer that generated considerable controversy due to his departure from his boyhood club — and subsequently to Manchester, where he joined Premier League champions Manchester City.
Donnarumma’s move to City marked yet another significant chapter in a career that has been defined by major transitions. He made his senior debut for AC Milan at the age of 16 in 2015, quickly establishing himself as one of the finest goalkeepers in Serie A. His time at PSG included a UEFA Nations League winner’s medal with Italy and recognition as the best goalkeeper at UEFA Euro 2020, a tournament Italy won. Since his arrival at the Etihad Stadium, he has operated under the management of Pep Guardiola, featuring as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
On the international stage, Donnarumma remains Italy’s number one, though the Azzurri have endured a difficult period. Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a result that Donnarumma publicly addressed with visible emotion. The absence from the World Cup represents a second consecutive qualification failure for the four-time world champions, following their elimination from the 2022 qualification play-offs.
With the wedding now behind him, Donnarumma’s attention is expected to return fully to club and international commitments as the 2025-26 season reaches its conclusion.
