Guglielmo Vicario voiced his delight regarding Gianluigi Donnarumma`s strong debut at Manchester City, also crediting recent adjustments at Tottenham Hotspur for his impressive tally of four clean sheets in the first six games of the season.
In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian international elaborated on his relationship with Donnarumma and offered his assessment of the current season`s initial stages.
Vicario: Donnarumma Needs No Advice
Commenting on his national teammate Donnarumma, who joined Manchester City on deadline day, Vicario remarked: “Gigio is well aware of his capabilities; he`s an exceptional goalkeeper who doesn`t need any advice from me. In fact, I was thrilled to witness his Sunday debut. He delivered a superb performance, and I`m pleased he`s off to such a good start. I extend my best wishes to him. We`ll reunite with the national squad where we always share laughter and maintain a strong friendship – that`s truly our bond`s greatest asset.”
Earlier this week, Vicario marked his Champions League debut as Tottenham secured a 1-0 victory over Villarreal in North London.
“It was an excellent outing, with fantastic contributions from everyone,” the Italian goalkeeper acknowledged. “Achieving a clean sheet was crucial for me in that game. The standard of play in this competition is incredibly high. We understood we were up against a formidable opponent skilled in football. We`re delighted to have kicked off our campaign positively.”
Vicario and Tottenham have recorded four clean sheets across their initial six matches this season. What does he attribute to the team`s impressive defensive solidity thus far?
Vicario on Tottenham Changes in 2025-26
“The key change lies in our improved ability to discern various game phases—knowing precisely when to apply intense high pressure and when to better cover the field,” Vicario explained. “There`s a heightened collective emphasis on defending our penalty area, partly because we possess greater clarity regarding off-the-ball movements. Against Villarreal, we conceded slightly too many transitions, and we must strive to deny opponents any glimmer of hope on the counter-attack. Nevertheless, it was an outstanding defensive showing as a unit, and we must maintain this trajectory.”
Vicario suggested that further transformations have occurred internally at the club, particularly since Tottenham clinched the Europa League title in the 2024-25 season.
“Securing a victory undoubtedly shifts perceptions, both externally and internally, fostering a measure of earned respect,” he elaborated. “Previously, even within the club, there was a recurring sentiment of consistently reaching the brink but never quite winning. Having now achieved that, it has somewhat liberated us. We`ve shed a significant burden, enabling us to advance with a clear understanding of our capabilities, alongside certain objectives—which we`ll keep confidential—that we are absolutely determined to accomplish.”
Now in his third season with Tottenham, Vicario outlined his future aspirations. “My goal is to fully embrace each moment without reservations. Just two years ago, I was playing for a smaller Italian club [Empoli] that contributed immensely to my development,” he reflected. “Within two seasons, I had the incredible experience of winning a European competition. This year, there`s a strong drive to excel in the Premier League. The Champions League presents a fresh challenge for many of us, complemented by a new coach, Frank, whose arrival has ignited immense enthusiasm and introduced innovative concepts. We are diligently working to implement these ideas daily with significant focus and dedication. With so many positive new elements, I am confident that we are poised for an exceptional season.”
