Maresca Backs Donnarumma Despite Manchester City Goalkeeping Errors

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has reiterated his support for goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma despite acknowledging that the Italian has made avoidable mistakes this season. The 27-year-old came under scrutiny following City’s 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig on Wednesday, when an error contributed to the German side’s second goal.

Donnarumma allowed Ridle Baku’s relatively tame effort to slip past him at the near post, giving Leipzig a goal they might otherwise have struggled to score. The goalkeeper was also fortunate later in the match when a second-half free-kick looped over his head and struck the crossbar.

Those incidents have added to questions about Donnarumma’s inconsistent performances and his position as City’s first-choice goalkeeper. However, Maresca has made it clear that he continues to trust the former AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain player.

Maresca Acknowledges Donnarumma’s Mistakes

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Maresca described Donnarumma’s overall performances as good while stressing the importance of finding the right balance between mistakes and positive contributions.

“Overall he’s good,” Maresca told a news conference on Friday.

“He’s quite relaxed in terms of he recognises that he has made some mistakes, but at the same time he has also made some good saves. It’s just a matter of balance. Try to avoid mistakes and continue to do the right things.”

The City manager’s comments suggest that he is not treating the Leipzig errors as a reason to immediately change his goalkeeper. Instead, he wants Donnarumma to recognise the areas where he needs to improve while maintaining the confidence required to perform at the highest level.

Donnarumma’s form has attracted attention throughout the season, with some observers questioning whether he should continue as City’s regular goalkeeper. Despite those concerns, Maresca has repeatedly defended the Italian and appears prepared to give him further opportunities.

Donnarumma Expected to Start Against Nottingham Forest

Manchester City are scheduled to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and Donnarumma is expected to remain in goal for the fixture. Maresca has given no indication that he intends to replace the Italian following the performance against Leipzig.

The only other available option mentioned for the position is backup goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli. The Argentine arrived from Marseille during the summer but has made only two appearances for City, both in the Carabao Cup this season.

That limited involvement means a change in goal would represent a significant decision for Maresca. For now, his public comments indicate that he remains comfortable with Donnarumma continuing as the first-choice option.

Maresca Explains His Conversations With Donnarumma

Maresca also explained that different players respond to mistakes in different ways. Some require detailed conversations and reassurance, while others are already aware of what went wrong and need only a brief acknowledgement from the manager.

“There are players who, when they make mistakes, you need to have conversations with them and there are players who you just need eye contact,” Maresca said.

“With Gigio it’s easy because every time he has made something that was not correct he recognises immediately. I spoke with him, but sometimes you don’t need to be so deep with some players and recognise that.”

The manager’s explanation indicates that Donnarumma does not need extensive criticism to understand when he has made an error. According to Maresca, the goalkeeper recognises his mistakes immediately, making it easier for the coaching staff to address them without lengthy discussions.

That approach also reflects the manager’s continued confidence in the Italian’s ability to respond positively. Rather than allowing individual errors to define his season, Maresca wants Donnarumma to focus on improving his consistency and continuing to make important saves.

Goalkeeping Decision Remains Under Attention

Donnarumma’s performances will remain a talking point as Manchester City prepare for their upcoming fixtures. His mistake against Leipzig and the near-miss from the second-half free-kick highlighted areas that need attention, but his manager has emphasised that his overall contribution should also be considered.

With Rulli having limited match experience since joining the club, Maresca currently has few alternatives to consider if he decides to change his goalkeeper. Donnarumma is therefore expected to retain his place against Nottingham Forest, although his performances will continue to be assessed.

For the Italian, the immediate challenge is to reduce avoidable errors while maintaining the positive aspects of his game. Maresca’s message is clear: he recognises that mistakes have happened, but he still supports his goalkeeper and expects him to respond with improved performances.