Man City sign goalkeeper Rulli from Marseille

Manchester City confirmed on Thursday that Argentine international Gerónimo Rulli has joined the club from Olympique de Marseille. The 31‑year‑old keeper signed a three‑year contract for an undisclosed fee, adding a proven Premier League‑ready option to Pep Guardiola’s roster. The transfer arrives just weeks before the new season kicks off, and it could reshape the club’s goalkeeping hierarchy. It matters because City are seeking depth ahead of a demanding domestic and European campaign while also planning for the eventual retirement of long‑term starter Ederson.

Key takeaways

  • Rulli moves to Manchester City on a three‑year deal for an undisclosed fee.
  • The Argentine has previously featured in the Premier League with Aston Villa.
  • City bolster their goalkeeper options ahead of a congested 2024‑25 season.
  • The signing signals Guardiola’s intent to maintain squad depth for multiple competitions.

Background

Gerónimo Rulli began his senior career at River Plate before moving to Spain with Real Madrid, where he made limited appearances. He later found regular playing time at Espanyol and then Aston Villa, helping the English side avoid relegation in 2022‑23. After a two‑year stint at Marseille, where he posted 15 clean sheets, Rulli returned to the Premier League spotlight. His experience in top leagues and familiarity with English football make him a low‑risk acquisition for a club that already boasts a world‑class squad.

What happened

On 12 August 2024, Manchester City announced the completion of Rulli’s transfer from Marseille. The club described the move as “a strategic addition to our goalkeeping department,” while Marseille confirmed the deal without revealing the financial terms. Rulli’s agent confirmed that the player will wear the number 13 shirt and will be available for pre‑season friendlies. The transfer was reported by BBC Sport and confirmed on the club’s official website.

Why it matters

City already have Ederson as their first‑choice keeper, but the demanding schedule—Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League—requires reliable backups. Rulli offers a different skill set: strong shot‑stopping, aerial command, and experience playing out from the back, which aligns with Guardiola’s possession‑based philosophy. His arrival also pressures the younger squad members, such as Zack Steele, to step up, fostering competition that could improve overall performance. Moreover, the signing demonstrates City’s willingness to invest in proven talent rather than relying solely on academy prospects, a trend observed across the sports landscape.

What happens next

Rulli will join City’s pre‑season camp in the United States, where he will train alongside Ederson and the defensive unit. He is expected to feature in the upcoming friendlies against clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona, providing Guardiola an early look at his compatibility with the squad’s tactical demands. Should injuries or form dips occur, Rulli could be called upon for league matches or Champions League fixtures. Off the pitch, the Argentine will also be featured in the club’s marketing campaigns, reinforcing City’s global brand in South America.

Frequently asked questions

When will Rulli be eligible to play for Manchester City?

Rulli is eligible to play as soon as he completes his international clearance, which is expected within 48 hours of the announcement.

How does Rulli’s experience compare with Ederson’s?

While Ederson is renowned for his distribution and sweeper‑keeper role, Rulli excels in traditional shot‑stopping and handling crosses, offering a complementary style.

Will Rulli replace any current squad members?

No player is being released specifically for Rulli; the signing adds depth and creates healthy competition without displacing existing goalkeepers.

Bottom line

Manchester City have secured Gerónimo Rulli to reinforce their goalkeeping options ahead of a packed 2024‑25 season. The move underscores Guardiola’s strategic squad planning and adds a seasoned international to the roster. Reporting by [BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cvgwz829l04o?