Manchester City announced the signing of Argentine goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli from Olympique de Marseille on August 12, 2026, agreeing a two-year deal worth about £1.7 million or up to €2 million, with a fixed fee of €1.75 million according to some sources [1, 2, 3].

Rulli, 34, returns to Manchester City where he was previously registered in the 2016-17 season but did not make a first-team appearance [1, 2, 3]. He joins the club as a replacement for England goalkeeper James Trafford, who transferred from Manchester City to Leeds United for up to £45 million [1, 2, 3].

He will serve as understudy to City's current first-choice goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma [1, 2, 3]. Manchester City's Director of Football, Hugo Viana, said, "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." [3]

Rulli has earned eight caps for Argentina and was part of the squads that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2024 Copa America [1, 2]. His club career has included stints at Villarreal, Real Sociedad, Montpellier, Ajax, and Marseille [1, 2, 3]. He played a key role for Villarreal in their Europa League final penalty shootout victory over Manchester United, a final dated either in 2021 or 2023 according to differing reports [1, 2, 3].

On joining Manchester City, Rulli said, "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." [1]

He added, "My job now is to train hard, get to know the players and staff and do everything I can to reach my best level." [3]

Manchester City aim to integrate Rulli into their squad for the upcoming season following his signing announcement on August 12, 2026 [2].