With the game coming in the midst of a demanding Autumn schedule, City boss Maresca confirmed that Argentine goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli will start against the Seagulls for his second appearance for the Club.
Meanwhile, addressing the media at his pre-match press conference, the boss also revealed that five senior players – Erling Haaland, Elliot Anderson, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Joško Gvardiol and skipper Rúben Dias – had all been afforded a short spell of time off after last weekend’s 2-1 Premier League loss at Aston Villa.
“Yes [Rulli will play tomorrow],” Maresca confirmed.
“He’s good. Before I arrived here, I had a conversation with him, he knows his role and that’s important.
“Day by day he is helping a lot. When he has played, he was good and tomorrow he will play again.
“After Villa, we gave five players three days off. Erling, Elliot, Gigio, Ruben and Josko. Go away on holiday. Three days off, go, come back. Full energy.
“In terms of how we plan, they [the games] are so close so we need to make some changes.
“We have one more session and then we decide for tomorrow.”
Wednesday’s tie marks the first of two back-to-back Etihad fixtures against Brighton with Fabian Hurzeler’s side also visiting the Etihad on Saturday in the Premier League.
The Seagulls have drawn widespread praise already this season both for their results and exciting style of play and have scored more goals than any other side in the top flight.
In the third round of the Carabao Cup meanwhile, the Seagulls came from 2-0 down to secure a superb 3-2 victory at Old Trafford.
And looking ahead to Wednesday night’s clash, Maresca said he was anticipating the most demanding of encounters.
“First of all, they are doing very well so both games will be tough,” Maresca said.
“They are very brave, aggressive and when they have the ball they attack with so many players.
“They create so many chances. We need to do the right things offensively and defensively.”
City v Brighton: £20 for adults and £1 for U18s
Tickets are now on sale for our Carabao Cup fourth round meeting with Brighton.
We host Fabian Hurzeler’s side at 19:30 (UK) on Wednesday 28 October.
Tickets for adults start from just £20, with all U18s only £1 – and you can also buy up to six tickets per person.
Taking place during half term school holidays too, it’s the perfect time to experience a night under the Etihad lights for all the family!
And there will be so much to do beforehand, with a Kids Fanzone just over the road at the City Football Academy ahead of kick-off.
Meanwhile, hospitality is available from just £100 with a range of packages on offer to suit your needs, whether a special occasion for a loved one or for something professional.
Book your place at the Seagulls encounter below.
