Maresca shuts down Man City goalkeeper debate despite Rulli heroics

Enzo Maresca has insisted there is “absolutely no doubt” over Gianluigi Donnarumma’s position as Manchester City’s number one despite Gerónimo Rulli impressing in the Carabao Cup shoot-out win over Brighton.

Rulli helped City progress after a 2-2 draw, but Maresca dismissed any suggestion that the Argentine is putting pressure on Donnarumma for the regular starting role.

“No, absolutely not from my point of view,” Maresca said.

“He’s working well, but he knows exactly his role and there is not any doubt about that.

“Absolutely no doubt.”

Maresca was nevertheless pleased with Rulli’s overall display, particularly his contribution in possession against Brighton’s aggressive press.

“I think overall he was good, especially in the build-up,” he said.

“It was not easy because they are a team that goes man to man, aggressive.

“He made, also, one good save during the game and he was good.”

The City boss also stood by his decision to give five senior players time off ahead of the tie, having rested Erling Haaland, Rúben Dias, Elliot Anderson, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Joško Gvardiol.

Asked whether he regretted that decision, Maresca replied: “No.

“I was happy with the way we planned the game, with the rotation, especially I was very, very happy with the ones on the pitch.”