Gerónimo Rulli Returns to Manchester City: A New Chapter Begins
Gerónimo Rulli has sealed a return to Manchester City, signing a two-year deal worth £2 million that ties him to the Etihad until 2028.
The Argentine international arrives from Marseille and is set to operate as understudy to first-choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, adding proven pedigree and depth to City’s goalkeeping department.
A serial winner between the posts
Rulli, 32, brings a résumé stacked with high-pressure moments. At Villarreal, he etched his name into European folklore in the 2021 UEFA Europa League final, first scoring in the penalty shootout and then saving the decisive spot-kick as the Spanish side stunned Manchester United.
His club exploits earned him a place in Argentina’s national setup, where he has collected eight caps. He was part of Lionel Scaloni’s squad that lifted the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022, further underlining the experience City are importing.
The move also marks a curious twist in his career. Rulli actually spent the 2016-17 season on City’s books without making a single appearance. This time, he returns as a far more seasoned figure, tested in La Liga, Ligue 1 and on the international stage.
“You have to go for it”
Rulli made no attempt to hide what this move means to him.
“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. 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.”
The message is clear: he knows his role, and he knows the stakes.
City’s hierarchy delighted with reunion
Football Director Hugo Viana welcomed the deal and the familiarity of a returning 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.
“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 boast a goalkeeping unit built on variety: Donnarumma as the undisputed No 1, Bettinelli offering reliable cover, and Rulli bringing the mentality of a man who has already decided major finals.
He missed out on a single minute of action in his first spell. This time, with a heavier CV and a World Cup medal in his luggage, he arrives determined to make sure the second chapter at the Etihad actually gets written on the pitch.
