AC Milan boss Gennaro Gattuso has asked supporters to stop targeting Gianluigi Donnarumma after the young goalkeeper was reduced to tears.
Donnarumma was filmed crying in the San Siro dressing room following Wednesday evening's 3-0 Coppa Italia win over Hellas Verona, having been subjected to abuse by Rossoneri fans.
A section of supporters have turned on the Italy international amid reports that the long-term contract signed in the summer could be annulled, as he was reportedly forced into signing it.
The midweek cup match was used as a chance to unfurl a 100ft banner, which read: "Psychological violence by giving you €6m a season and signing your parasite brother? It's time to leave - our patience with you is over!"
Gattuso is unhappy with the conduct of Milan supporters, though, telling reporters: "He's an 18-year-old kid, of course he was shaken. I can only thank him for what he's doing.
"For his age, he's the best goalkeeper in the world right now. You can tell from his face he's not happy, but I have known a great athlete and great kid. He will have my protection, for all the protection I can give. If the club says it doesn't need to sell anyone, nor wants to, then why should we even talk about this?
"I respect the fans, but he sulked at me for four days because I left him at home for the first time in seven months. He never skipped a training session, let alone a game. People need to understand whether Gigio really does want to go or if he wants to stay.
"I can say I'm working with a great athlete and professional. I am the coach of Milan, so I can talk about the lad, the athlete, but nothing else. Gigio has not told me personally that he wants to leave. If he did, that would be different."
Donnarumma was linked with Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus prior to agreeing fresh terms earlier this year.
Daniel Lewis
