Maresca keeps Donnarumma as first choice despite Rulli’s cup saves
Rulli stopped two penalties against Brighton to help Manchester City reach an EFL Cup quarterfinal at home to Bradford City.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca said Gianluigi Donnarumma would retain his starting place after Geronimo Rulli helped the club eliminate Brighton & Hove Albion from the EFL Cup. Donnarumma is set to return for the Premier League meeting with Brighton after being rested for the cup tie.
Rulli saved consecutive shootout attempts by Yasin Ayari and Lewis Dunk following a 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium. City had twice recovered from a deficit during normal time, when Rulli made four saves, including a one-handed stop against Georginio Rutter shortly after halftime.
The 34-year-old was playing only his second match for City after returning from Marseille in the summer as Donnarumma’s backup. Maresca told BBC Sport that Rulli understood his role and that his performance had not changed the goalkeeping hierarchy. Donnarumma was among five City players omitted from the cup squad for extra rest.
Speaking to City Studios, Rulli credited supporters with helping generate confidence during the shootout. He also said he had told Enzo Fernandez before the match that he would stop two penalties if the contest reached that stage.
City, the EFL Cup holders, will host League One side Bradford City in the quarterfinals during the week beginning December 14.
