Gerónimo Rulli Returns to Manchester City as Backup to Donnarumma
Manchester City have completed the signing of Argentina international Gerónimo Rulli in a £2 million deal, bringing the goalkeeper back to the Etihad on a two-year contract running until 2028.
The 32-year-old arrives from Marseille and is expected to operate as understudy to first-choice Gianluigi Donnarumma, adding depth and experience to City’s goalkeeping department.
A serial winner with a dramatic past
Rulli is no stranger to high-stakes nights. During his time at Villarreal, he etched his name into European folklore in the 2021 UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United, first scoring in the penalty shootout and then making the decisive save to clinch the trophy.
He has eight caps for Argentina and was part of the squad that lifted the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, underlining the calibre of player City have brought into their dressing room.
The move also marks a curious full circle. Rulli previously spent the 2016-17 season on City’s books without making a single appearance. This time, he arrives with a far heavier CV and a clear role.
Rulli: ‘You have to go for it’
For Rulli, the decision was straightforward.
“This is an amazing opportunity for me – and one I had to grasp. When the chance to join Manchester City comes along you have to go for it,” he said.
“Everyone knows what an impressive club this is. City’s success over a long time has been impressive. Everyone I have spoken to about City said I had to join them because they are a club with incredibly high standards.
“Every professional wants to be in a high-performance environment and I can’t wait to get started because I know I will improve and learn, which is always my main priority. My job now is to train hard, get to know the players and staff and do everything I can to reach my best level.”
City’s hierarchy delighted with reunion
Football Director Hugo Viana welcomed the deal and the return of a familiar face.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Gerónimo back to the Club. The experience he brings is obvious – he has played at the very highest level for many years,” Viana said.
“I have been really impressed by him during our conversations, a strong desire to join us. It’s clear we are getting a brilliant professional, as well as a top ‘keeper.
“Everyone at City is looking forward to welcoming him back to the Club. The qualities he will bring are ones we need, and together with Gigio and Marcus [Bettinelli] make a great team. Our goalkeeper coaches are really happy with the group.”
City now move into the new season with a World Cup winner backing up Donnarumma, a Europa League hero returning to a club where his story once never truly started. This time, Rulli arrives ready-made for the spotlight if called.
