Manchester City has officially secured the signing of Argentine goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli from Marseille, as confirmed by both clubs on Wednesday. The 34-year-old goalkeeper has agreed to a two-year contract and will serve as the backup to City's first-choice goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma.
This marks Rulli's return to Manchester City, where he previously spent the 2016-17 season without making a first-team appearance. Speaking about his move, Rulli expressed enthusiasm, stating, "This is an amazing opportunity for me and one I had to grasp." He emphasized the significance of joining a club with such a prestigious reputation, saying, "When the chance to join Manchester City comes along you have to go for it. Everyone knows what an impressive club this is."
Rulli's career has been highlighted by notable achievements, including being part of the Argentine national team that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America. He has also made eight appearances for Argentina and was part of the squad that reached the World Cup final last month, although they fell to Spain. His experience in European football includes stints with clubs like Real Sociedad, Villarreal, Montpellier, and Ajax.
One of Rulli's most memorable moments came during the 2021 Europa League final when he scored a penalty in Villarreal's victory over Manchester United. He played a pivotal role in the shootout, saving a penalty from United's David de Gea, helping Villarreal secure the trophy with an 11-10 win.
The transfer comes as Marseille faces financial challenges, having been fined 10 million euros for failing to meet UEFA's break-even targets. Consequently, the club is required to sell players to stabilize its finances. Marseille's fifth-place finish in Ligue 1 during the 2025-2026 season has also resulted in their absence from the lucrative Champions League, further complicating their financial situation.
In addition to Rulli's departure, Marseille has seen other key players leave the club, including Argentine defender Facundo Medina, who transferred to Bayer Leverkusen after just one season. The club has also parted ways with high-profile players such as English forward Mason Greenwood, who joined Fenerbahce, and Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who moved to Deportivo La Coruña in Spain.
As Rulli prepares for his second stint at Manchester City, he aims to make a significant impact both in training and on the pitch, working hard to integrate with his new teammates and contribute to the team's ongoing success.
Leave a Comment