Donnarumma expected to start vs. Ireland, would become youngest Italy U21 debutant in history

At 17 years and 28 days, Gianluigi Donnarumma will most likely play for Italy U21 from the start for the first time as they go against Ireland U21.

Donnarumma has been perhaps the greatest surprise in football this season as at 16 years of age, he took over the starting spot at Milan’s goal, and tonight he looks set to make his debut for the Under 21 Italy side of Luigi Di Biagio.

Italy play a 2017 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying match against the Republic of Ireland today (Thursday) at 19:00 CET and it’s a crucial match for them as they want to remain in the top place in Group 2.
If everything goes as planned tonight then Donnarumma, who a few weeks ago didn’t play for the U21 side despite being called-up, will become the youngest debutant in the history of the Azzurrini with 17 years and 28 days. The Rossoneri’s Alessio Romagnoli will also play from the start.

“I never expected to get to these levels so early,” Gigio told Rai Sport, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I don’t know if I’ll play [on Thursday] but I’m excited and it would be an honour. Ireland-Italia will be an important match for the qualification. The ‘Azzurro’ is everything to me and it’s been a dream.
“Milan? We are all on the side of Mihajlovic. I owe him so much become he promoted me to the first choice spot.” After the match with The Republic of Ireland, Italy face Andorra on the 29th of March.