Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has backed Gianluigi Donnarumma to shake off his recent mistakes after giving the goalkeeper an extended break from action. Donnarumma is one of five players who will miss the Carabao Cup tie with Brighton after being allowed time off following the defeat at Aston Villa.
Recent errors under scrutiny
City created more chances and the better chances at Villa Park but were punished for a first-half error by Marc Guehi and a second-half mistake by Donnarumma. Guehi had also made two errors in the previous week's win over Ipswich, while Donnarumma should have done better with the fourth goal PSG scored in their Champions League victory.
Maresca did not avoid the suggestion that Donnarumma has been at fault in recent matches, but he is confident the Italian can move past those problems.
Rotation for Brighton cup clash
Geronimo Rulli will start against Brighton in the Carabao Cup, while Donnarumma is expected to return for the Premier League meeting with the same opponents on Saturday.
Speaking about the goalkeeper's form, Maresca said: "As a football player or manager, when you don't get results or make some mistakes it's normal. It's a consequence. Gigio since we started is doing well, like any manager or player is making some mistakes but it's part of the season."
"They play so many games and minutes that sometimes it's impossible not to make mistakes. He's a strong character. He knows that when he makes some mistake, he doesn't need us to tell them. He recognises that and it's part of the game."
