Enzo Maresca has emphasized that no members of his Manchester City squad are undroppable, despite recently expressing public backing for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Italian manager clarified his stance ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.
Goalkeeper Performance and Roster Decisions
Donnarumma faced heavy criticism after being at fault for both goals during a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa. Following that performance, he was rested as Manchester City defeated Brighton in a penalty shootout to advance to the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup. Gerónimo Rulli stepped in and stopped two penalties to secure the victory, prompting Maresca to remark immediately after the match that his lineup for the league rematch with Brighton would be “Gigio plus 10”.
When questioned about that statement during his pre-match press conference, Maresca explained that acknowledging a player’s current status is distinct from labeling them immune to being dropped. He stated that every player makes errors over the course of a campaign, and the key response is to learn from them and move forward. Maresca also pointed to Donnarumma’s crucial late save during an away fixture against Manchester United as an example of his positive contributions.
Team Fitness and Availability
Regarding squad fitness, Maresca reported that Antoine Semenyo remains the sole absentee as he continues his recovery from a knee injury. Maresca confirmed that all other squad members are fully available for selection. He added that Semenyo is maintaining a positive attitude and is currently completing his necessary therapy and rehabilitation sessions at the club’s facility, though a return to action remains premature.
