Manchester City Finalize €2 Million Deal for Goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli

Gerónimo Rulli returns to Manchester City on a two-year contract after the club agreed a €2 million transfer package with Marseille to secure the veteran shot-stopper.

Manchester City have completed the signing of Gerónimo Rulli from Marseille for a total financial package of €2 million. The transaction involves a guaranteed payment of €1.75 million for the 34-year-old goalkeeper, who has officially committed to a two-year contract at the Etihad Stadium. This move marks a return to the Premier League champions for the Argentina international, who was previously on the club's books between 2016 and 2017. Rulli arrives to serve as the immediate backup to Gianluigi Donnarumma, filling the squad position vacated by James Trafford’s exit.

Key details

Director of football Hugo Viana announced the deal on August 12, 2026, confirming that the veteran will join a goalkeeping department that currently features 'Gigio' and Marcus. The Argentine brings a wealth of continental experience to Manchester, most notably his decisive role in the 2023 Europa League final. During that fixture, he guarded the net for Villarreal as they triumphed over Manchester United in a marathon 10-9 penalty shootout. His professional journey spans multiple top-tier divisions, including stints at Real Sociedad, Ajax, and Montpellier following his initial breakthrough in South American football.

The financial breakdown of this transfer ensures Marseille receives the bulk of the fee upfront, with the remaining €250,000 tied to performance-related objectives. This recruitment effort specifically targets the need for a seasoned deputy behind the Italian starter. Rulli characterized the transfer as an incredible chance that he could not refuse, pointing to the elite standards maintained by the English side as a key factor in his decision. He stated that his primary focus is to begin rigorous training sessions immediately to integrate with the technical staff and reach his maximum physical condition.

Hugo Viana emphasized that the Argentine’s extensive history at the highest level of the sport was a major draw for the recruitment team. The director noted that during initial discussions, the player expressed an intense motivation to rejoin the organization. Viana described the new arrival as a consummate professional whose technical attributes perfectly match the demands of the current coaching philosophy. The club’s specialized trainers have expressed confidence in the revamped goalkeeping unit, which now balances youth with established international pedigree.

Latest developments

Prior to his time in Ligue 1, Rulli was a consistent performer in both La Liga and the Eredivisie. His victory against Manchester United in European competition remains a defining moment of his career, providing him with the silverware credentials required for a high-pressure environment. By taking over the role previously held by Trafford, the 34-year-old provides a stable veteran presence for the duration of the 2026-27 season. The player mentioned that every individual he spoke to regarding the transfer gave glowing reports of the facilities and the long-term vision of the project.

The acquisition represents a strategic move to bolster defensive depth without exceeding a modest budget. Rulli’s familiarity with the English game, despite his limited minutes during his first spell, is expected to shorten his adaptation period. The Argentine will wear the sky blue shirt once again, aiming to provide reliable cover during domestic cup competitions and potential injury absences. His arrival concludes a search for an experienced number two who can handle the pressure of elite-level competition while supporting the development of the younger keepers in the academy system.

Technical reports from the scouting department highlighted Rulli's shot-stopping ability and his comfort with the ball at his feet, traits essential for the tactical setup employed at the Etihad. The two-year duration of the agreement provides the club with short-term security in a vital position. As the squad prepares for the upcoming schedule, the integration of a World Cup-winning squad member adds further leadership to the dressing room. Rulli is expected to begin his first full training session with the first-team squad later this week, following the completion of all necessary medical examinations and paperwork.