The key facts

  • Maresca distinguishes between being the first-choice goalkeeper and being untouchable: there is no guaranteed place in the starting line-up
  • Donnarumma has been criticised for mistakes early in the season, while Rulli shone in the Carabao Cup against Brighton
  • Brighton, after losing on penalties, are aiming for revenge in the Premier League match at the Etihad

Maresca on Donnarumma's status

Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca said at a pre-match press conference that Gianluigi Donnarumma is not an This is reported by AFP.

Criticism and competition in goal

Donnarumma has faced harsh criticism for a series of mistakes early in the season. The debate over his place in the team intensified after a standout performance by backup goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli in City's winning Carabao Cup match against Brighton on Wednesday: Rulli saved two penalties in the shootout after City came from behind twice to draw 2-2. Maresca nevertheless stressed:

Match context and a exchange between the coaches

City top the Premier League table, with Brighton third. Brighton head coach Fabian Hürzeler said his side are seeking revenge after the penalty-shootout defeat, and, according to AFP, claimed that City were lucky in the cup tie — against the backdrop of the club's appeal after being found guilty last month of more than 100 charges of breaching the Premier League's financial rules. Maresca reacted with restraint: