Maresca previews first Manchester derby as City boss with perfect start at stake

Enzo Maresca addressed the press on Friday ahead of Manchester City’s trip to Old Trafford for the Manchester derby, with City carrying a perfect four-from-four record into the fixture and sitting top of the Premier League table.

City’s unbeaten start to the season includes a 2-0 win at Porto in midweek, and Maresca will be eager to extend that run against a United side that beat City 2-0 at the same venue back in January. Sunday’s clash will be the first Manchester derby of Maresca’s tenure as City manager.

The Italian coach used the press conference to deliver early team news and injury updates ahead of the weekend fixture. City’s squad fitness will be a key talking point given the midweek European travel.

Maresca has built a growing reputation for performing in high-stakes matches, and a derby victory at Old Trafford would represent a significant statement in his first season in charge at the Etihad. City’s 100 per cent league record places them at the summit heading into what is traditionally one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in English football.

Full quotes and team news from the press conference are expected to provide clarity on any selection concerns before Sunday’s kick-off.