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SCHOOL COMES FIRST

Italy Under-21’s main star nearly missed the European Championships because of exams

Gianluigi Donnarumma nearly missed out on the tournament in Poland in order to focus on his studies

It’s easy to forget that footballers are normal people who have to do the same menial jobs as you and I.

You know, stuff like putting the bins out, mowing the lawn and, if you’re of a certain age, going to school.

Even footballers need to get the mower out from time to time

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Even footballers need to get the mower out from time to time

Gianluigi Donnarumma was one such footballer who had to make the choice between school and football this summer.

The 18-year-old AC Milan goalkeeper was included in Italy’s squad for the Under-21 European Championships in Poland.

Reason for celebration, no?

Quick, I’ve got homework to be getting on with

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Quick, I’ve got homework to be getting on with

Not quite. School is calling. Donnarumma still has exams to finish in the summer.

But, luckily for Italy, the best young goalkeeper in world football decided to put his exams on hold until the tournament is finished.

You can’t really blame him, can you?

I got 99 problems but exams ain’t one

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I got 99 problems but exams ain’t one

Donnarumma will now likely take his place in the sticks for Italy, ahead of Udinese goalkeeper Simone Scuffet.

Italy are in Group C, alongside Denmark, Germany and Czech Republic.

Luigi Di Biagio has a strong core to rely on, including Juventus defender Daniele Rugani, Sassuolo’s Domenico Berardi and Fiorentina’s Federico Bernadeschi.

Berardi has already had a crack at captaining the senior side

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Berardi has already had a crack at captaining the senior side

But not all footballers are as committed to football as Donnarumma.

Italy lost Giulio Maggiore from their Under-20 World Cup squad because the Spezia midfielder wanted to sit his exams.

So remember kids, stay in school.