Maresca backs Anderson's 'Kings of Manchester' claim ahead of Old Trafford derby

Enzo Maresca has thrown his support behind Elliot Anderson’s claim that Manchester City are the ‘kings of Manchester’, framing the midfielder’s bold statement as a natural product of growing up in an era of City dominance ahead of Sunday’s derby at Old Trafford.

Anderson made the declaration when he completed his £116 million move from Nottingham Forest to City in the summer, instantly endearing himself to the blue half of the city. The comment has resurfaced in the build-up to the first Manchester derby of the season, and Maresca was happy to stand by it.

“Probably the reason why Elliot said that is because he grew up in the last 15 years,” Maresca said. “I think Manchester City was unbelievable with what they achieved. I think it’s normal to say that. If you go back, it’s a different picture. For me the reason why Elliot said that is because when he grew up Manchester City was dominant.”

The statistics back up the sentiment. City have finished above United for 13 consecutive seasons — every year since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013, and across all 10 of Pep Guardiola’s campaigns at the Etihad.

Maresca’s side have made a sharp start to the new season, winning three of their opening three league games to arrive at Old Trafford five points ahead of their neighbours. A City victory on Sunday would extend that advantage to eight points, while a United win would cut the gap to just two — making it a significant early-season marker for both clubs.

The midfield battle has drawn particular attention in the build-up. Both clubs signed three midfielders in the summer window, though United spent less than half of what City invested in that area of the pitch, and Ruben Amorim’s side will be eager to demonstrate that the gap in outlay does not translate to a gap in quality.