Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has downplayed the narrative surrounding his upcoming first Manchester derby, emphasizing that his attention remains fixed on his squad and the club’s unbeaten start to the season rather than personal attention.
Leading the Premier League standings with three consecutive victories, City face Michael Carrick’s Manchester United on Sunday in what Maresca described as the toughest fixture for his team so far. Despite the high stakes of the local rivalry, the Italian tactician insisted that winning is about sustaining the team’s current momentum, not just securing a personal first.
“To be honest, I’m more thinking about the team, the fans, the table,” Maresca told reporters on Friday. “And for sure, if we win, it’s also good for me. But the main focus is not ‘It’s my first derby and I want to win the game.’ For sure, I want to win the game, but it’s because we want to continue to win games. That is good for everyone.”
The match marks a significant moment for Carrick, whose United side has struggled for consistency, winning only one of their opening three matches and sitting five points adrift of the leaders. In contrast, City have dominated the city since Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, finishing above their rivals in every season since, although they suffered a defeat at Old Trafford last year in Pep Guardiola’s final game in charge.
Maresca, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant at City, addressed recent comments made by new signing Elliot Anderson, who described Manchester City as the “kings of Manchester” following the midfielder’s record-breaking British transfer from Nottingham Forest for £116 million ($157 million).
Maresca supported Anderson’s assertion, noting that the young midfielder grew up during a period of City’s recent dominance. “The reason why Elliot said that is because he grew up in the last 15 years,” Maresca explained. “I think Manchester City was unbelievable, what they achieved. So, I think it’s normal when Elliot said that. Then if you go back, it’s a different picture. But for me, the reason why Elliot said that is because when he grew up, Manchester City was dominant.”
Interesting how Maresca acknowledged the past dominance but hinted things could change. He’s certainly not taking United lightly.
I find it amusing that Anderson calls us kings while we just spent a hundred and sixteen million pounds on him. Bold!
Carrick’s United struggling early season is concerning. Can they really bounce back against a City side this motivated?
Wait, Elliot Anderson moved for £116 million? That figure is absolutely insane even for modern football standards.
Maresca showing great professionalism by ignoring the spotlight. That focus is exactly why City are top of the table right now.