Geronimo Rulli signs for Man City from Marseille on two-year deal
Synopsis
Geronimo Rulli is back at the Etihad — a decade after leaving without a single appearance. Now a World Cup winner with 34-year-old experience spanning Ajax, Villarreal, and Marseille, his return is anything but sentimental. Manchester City have signed a battle-hardened keeper with a point to prove.
Key Takeaways
Manchester City have signed goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli from Marseille on a deal running until 2028 .
The 34-year-old Argentine previously spent the 2016/17 season at City without making an appearance.
Rulli has won eight international caps for Argentina and was part of squads that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa America .
He helped Villarreal win the 2020/21 UEFA Europa League against Manchester United .
The signing bolsters City's goalkeeping options under manager Enzo Maresca .
Manchester City have completed the signing of Argentine goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli from French club Marseille on a two-year contract, keeping him at the Etihad Stadium until 2028. The deal marks a return to the club for the 34-year-old, who previously spent the 2016/17 season at City without making a competitive appearance.
A Familiar Face Returns to the Etihad
Rulli's first stint at Manchester City came nearly a decade ago, though he departed without featuring in a single match for the first team. This time, he arrives with a vastly more decorated CV and joins a squad managed by Enzo Maresca. City, former Premier League champions, have moved quickly to bolster their goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.
World Cup Winner With Elite Club Pedigree
On the international stage, Rulli has earned eight caps for Argentina and was part of the squad that clinched both the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America. His club career has taken him across Europe's top leagues — from Real Sociedad and Villarreal in Spain, to Ajax in the Netherlands, Montpellier and most recently Marseille in France. Notably, his time at Villarreal included a pivotal role in the club's 2020/21 UEFA Europa League triumph over Manchester United.
What Rulli Said
Speaking in an official club statement, Rulli expressed his enthusiasm for the move. '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,' he said.
He added: '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.'
What This Means for City
The acquisition gives Manchester City an experienced, trophy-laden goalkeeper who brings both international pedigree and Champions League-level composure. With the 2025/26 season underway, the signing signals City's intent to maintain the high standards that defined their recent era of domestic dominance. How Rulli fits into Maresca's plans — and whether he challenges for the starting berth — will be closely watched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Geronimo Rulli?
Geronimo Rulli is a 34-year-old Argentine goalkeeper who has played for clubs including Real Sociedad, Villarreal, Ajax, Montpellier, and Marseille. He is a two-time major international trophy winner, having been part of Argentina's 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa America squads.
Has Geronimo Rulli played for Manchester City before?
Yes, Rulli spent the 2016/17 season at Manchester City but did not make any competitive appearances for the club. His current signing marks his second spell at the Etihad.
How long is Rulli's contract with Manchester City?
Rulli has signed a two-year deal with Manchester City, keeping him at the club until 2028.
What trophies has Geronimo Rulli won?
Rulli was part of the Argentina squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America. At club level, he helped Villarreal win the 2020/21 UEFA Europa League against Manchester United.
Who is Manchester City's manager?
Manchester City are currently managed by Enzo Maresca, and Rulli confirmed in his official statement that joining Maresca's squad was a key motivation for the transfer.
