'He knows his role' - Rulli provides heroics but no worries for Donnarumma

What the report says

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has played down any suggestion that Geronimo Rulli’s recent performance could threaten Gianluigi Donnarumma’s status as first-choice goalkeeper. Speaking after City’s penalty shootout win over Brighton in the Carabao Cup, Maresca said Rulli understands his role as backup and that Donnarumma remains his number one.

The BBC Sport report says Rulli, who rejoined City in the summer after a spell at Marseille, helped send the holders into the quarter-finals with a strong display. The 34-year-old saved Brighton’s final two penalties, from Yasin Ayari and Lewis Dunk, after the match finished 2-2 in normal time. He also made an important fingertip save to deny Georginio Rutter earlier in the game.

Rulli’s outing came amid broader scrutiny of Donnarumma, who has recently been questioned after some mistakes in Premier League action. Maresca, however, said the Italy captain was being rested to recover and suggested City’s cup run remains a major opportunity. City, who have made several changes in recent matches, will face Bradford in the next round.

The article adds useful context: Rulli is no stranger to shootout drama, having played a decisive role for Villarreal in the 2021 Europa League final. BBC Sport also notes that City remain in contention to defend the competition they won last season.