Players will 'learn how we want them to play' - Maresca
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca praised his new signings following a narrow victory, emphasizing the need for tactical development. The match featured debuts for several players, including Iliman Ndiaye and Ayyoub Bouaddi, as the team adjusts to a revamped midfield.
Why it matters
The integration of new talent is critical for Manchester City's title defense as they navigate a significant squad rebuild.
Image source, Getty Images By Shamoon Hafez Manchester City reporter Published 6 September 2026, 11:44 BST Manchester City clung on to a nervy victory against the Sky Blues to maintain their 100% winning start to the season, but managed to get the job done courtesy of a string of saves from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Erling Haaland continued his fine start to the season by converting his third goal in as many games from Antoine Semenyo's deep cross, which came after Enzo Fernandez played through a slide-rule pass to the Ghanaian.
Playing in the number eight role, Argentina international Fernandez was given licence to roam and make late bursts into the box - he touched the ball six times in the opposition area, with only Haaland managing more with 11.
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