Daily News 19

Tag: Enzo Maresca

  • Rayan Ait-Nouri Linked to Manchester City Exit in January as Juventus Plan Fresh Move, Reports Say

    Rayan Ait-Nouri Linked to Manchester City Exit in January as Juventus Plan Fresh Move, Reports Say

    Key Highlights

    • Rayan Ait-Nouri is reportedly considering a January departure from Manchester City after failing to secure Premier League minutes under manager Enzo Maresca.
    • The Algeria international joined the club from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a £31 million fee last summer but remains without a league appearance this season.
    • Italian outlet Bianconera News suggests the left-back’s limited role could prompt an early exit during the winter transfer window.

    Ait-Nouri’s Frustrating Start at the Etihad

    Algeria international Rayan Ait-Nouri faces an uncertain future at Manchester City after a debut campaign that has yet to yield a single Premier League appearance. According to a report from Bianconera News, the left-back could seek a move away from the Etihad Stadium as early as the January transfer window. The 23-year-old arrived from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a deal worth £31 million last summer, with expectations high that he would provide competition and cover in the full-back positions under new head coach Enzo Maresca.

    Maresca’s Tactical Setup Leaves Little Room

    Despite the significant investment, Ait-Nouri has found himself on the periphery of Maresca’s first-team plans. The Italian manager has favored other options at left-back, leaving the former Wolves defender restricted to cup competitions or unused substitute roles in the league. This lack of game time represents a sharp contrast to his consistent performances at Molineux, where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s more attacking full-backs. The current situation raises questions about whether the player’s profile fits the specific tactical demands Maresca requires from his wide defenders.

    January Window Looms as Decision Point

    With the winter transfer window approaching, the player’s camp will likely assess options to ensure regular football, potentially including a loan move or a permanent transfer should City be open to recouping their outlay. For a player entering his prime years and holding aspirations for the Algeria national team, a prolonged spell on the bench is untenable. The club’s hierarchy must now decide whether to exercise patience with a long-term asset or facilitate a departure that suits all parties.

    Why This Matters

    The potential early exit of Ait-Nouri highlights the ruthless nature of squad management at elite clubs like Manchester City, where even expensive signings are not guaranteed minutes if they do not align perfectly with the manager’s system. For Maresca, it underscores the challenge of integrating new profiles into a rigid tactical framework. For Wolves, the £31 million received represents excellent business for a player they developed, while City’s recruitment strategy faces scrutiny if a significant fee yields zero league starts in half a season. The January window will reveal whether this is a temporary adjustment period or a fundamental mismatch.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why hasn’t Rayan Ait-Nouri played in the Premier League for Manchester City this season?

    Under manager Enzo Maresca, Ait-Nouri has struggled to break into the starting lineup or matchday squad for league fixtures, suggesting a tactical mismatch or strong competition for the left-back position.

    How much did Manchester City pay for Ait-Nouri?

    Manchester City signed Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a reported fee of £31 million in the summer of 2024.

    Could Ait-Nouri leave in January?

    Yes, according to Bianconera News, a January departure is possible if his playing time does not improve, with a loan or permanent move being potential outcomes.

  • Jeremy Doku in line for Sunderland return: ‘Probably he can be available’

    Jeremy Doku in line for Sunderland return: ‘Probably he can be available’

    Key Highlights

    • Jeremy Doku is expected to return to the Manchester City squad for Sunday’s match against Sunderland after recovering from a calf injury.
    • Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the Belgium international is back in contention ahead of the Premier League fixture.
    • Doku’s return provides a significant attacking boost for City as they navigate a congested fixture schedule.

    Doku Cleared for Selection After Calf Layoff

    Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku is poised to make his return to competitive action on Sunday when the Premier League champions host Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium. The 22-year-old Belgium international has been sidelined with a calf problem but has reportedly returned to full training this week, placing him in contention for a place in the matchday squad.

    Maresca Confirms Winger’s Availability

    City manager Enzo Maresca delivered the positive update during his pre-match press conference, indicating that the former Rennes attacker has overcome the muscular issue that has kept him out of recent fixtures. Doku’s pace and direct running have been a key component of City’s wide play since his summer arrival, and his absence has coincided with a period where the team has looked to diversify its attacking patterns.

    Tactical Implications for Sunday’s Fixture

    The potential return of Doku offers Maresca additional tactical flexibility on the flanks. With Savinho and Phil Foden having shouldered much of the wide creative burden in recent weeks, Doku’s ability to beat a man one-on-one and drive into the final third adds a different dimension to City’s attack. His presence also allows the Italian coach to manage minutes across a demanding schedule that includes Champions League and domestic cup commitments in the coming weeks.

    Injury Management in a Congested Calendar

    The calf injury represented Doku’s first significant fitness setback since joining the club. City’s medical and performance staff will likely monitor his match sharpness closely, with a substitute appearance a plausible scenario should Maresca opt for a cautious reintegration. The club’s depth in wide areas means there is no immediate pressure to rush the Belgian back into the starting XI, though his impact off the bench could prove decisive against a Sunderland side expected to sit deep and counter.

    Why This Matters

    Doku’s return to fitness is a timely boost for Manchester City as they enter a critical phase of the season. With the Premier League title race tightening and Champions League knockout stages approaching, squad depth and rotational options become paramount. The Belgian’s unique skill set—explosive acceleration, close control in tight spaces, and willingness to take on defenders—provides a specific tactical outlet that few other players in the squad replicate. His availability also eases the load on fellow wingers, reducing the risk of further muscular injuries during a period of high match frequency. For Sunderland, facing a fully stocked City attack represents a significantly stiffer test than one missing its most dynamic dribbler.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When did Jeremy Doku suffer the calf injury?

    The exact date of the injury was not specified in the manager’s update, but Doku has missed recent fixtures while undergoing rehabilitation. His return to training this week signals the conclusion of his recovery period.

    Will Jeremy Doku start against Sunderland?

    Enzo Maresca stated Doku is “back in contention,” which typically means he is available for selection. Whether he starts or features from the bench will be a tactical decision made closer to kick-off, with match fitness and the overall game plan factoring into the choice.

    How many games has Doku missed due to the calf problem?

    The source did not specify the exact number of matches missed. Doku has been absent from the matchday squad for recent fixtures while recovering from the calf issue.

  • Palestra Set for Chelsea Official Debut as Italy Call-Up Remains Uncertain

    Palestra Set for Chelsea Official Debut as Italy Call-Up Remains Uncertain

    Key Highlights

    • Chelsea defender Marco Palestra has returned to full training after several weeks sidelined by an undisclosed injury.
    • The academy graduate participated in Friday’s session for the first time since his absence began.
    • Palestra could be available for selection for Chelsea’s upcoming weekend fixture.

    Palestra Returns to Cobham Training Ground After Injury Layoff

    Chelsea’s defensive options received a significant boost on Friday as young defender Marco Palestra rejoined first-team training at the club’s Cobham headquarters. The 18-year-old academy product had been absent from the squad for several weeks while managing an undisclosed injury issue that kept him out of competitive action and team sessions.

    Academy Graduate Works Back Toward Match Fitness

    Palestra’s return to the training pitch marks a crucial step in his rehabilitation process. The versatile defender, who can operate across the back line, has been viewed as one of the promising talents emerging from Chelsea’s renowned youth system. His integration back into Enzo Maresca’s senior group suggests the medical staff have cleared him for full contact work, though his immediate match readiness will likely be assessed over the coming days.

    Potential Weekend Involvement Looms

    The timing of Palestra’s return raises the possibility of his inclusion in the matchday squad for Chelsea’s weekend assignment. With the Blues navigating a demanding fixture schedule across multiple competitions, squad depth in defensive positions remains a priority for the coaching staff. Palestra’s versatility could provide Maresca with valuable tactical flexibility should he be deemed fit enough for a place on the bench or even a starting role depending on the fitness of senior alternatives.

    Why This Matters

    Palestra’s comeback carries significance beyond a single player’s recovery. Chelsea’s current campaign has tested squad depth extensively, with injuries to key defensive personnel forcing the manager to rely heavily on academy graduates and rotational options. The return of a player who has already featured in Premier League matchday squads this season adds a layer of resilience to a backline that has been stretched thin. Furthermore, successful reintegration of homegrown talent aligns with the club’s long-term strategy of blending youth development with immediate competitive demands. The next 48 hours will clarify whether Palestra’s training return translates into match involvement or if the coaching staff opts for a more cautious approach to his workload management.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What injury did Marco Palestra suffer?
    The club has not disclosed the specific nature of Palestra’s injury, referring to it only as an undisclosed issue that kept him out for several weeks.
    Has Marco Palestra played for Chelsea’s first team this season?
    Yes, the academy graduate has been involved in first-team matchday squads during the current campaign, though his appearances have been limited by this recent injury layoff.
    Which position does Marco Palestra play?
    Palestra is a versatile defender capable of playing across the back line, offering tactical flexibility for manager Enzo Maresca.
  • Assessing Premier League Overreactions: Title Race Narrows to Arsenal and Man City

    Assessing Premier League Overreactions: Title Race Narrows to Arsenal and Man City

    Premier League Weekend Review: Title Race, VAR Controversy, and Early Season Verdicts

    Another Premier League weekend delivered breathtaking action, yet the conversation remains dominated by VAR decisions and officiating standards. Manchester City and Arsenal both secured away victories, Hull City continued their impressive start, Tottenham Hotspur failed to score for a fourth consecutive match, and Coventry City suffered a heavy home defeat. Here are the key talking points, separating overreactions from legitimate takeaways.

    Title Race Already a Two-Horse Contest?

    Arsenal and Manchester City have opened a four-point gap over third-place Leeds United after four straight wins each. The defending champions and the 2024 title winners appear to be setting the early standard under Mikel Arteta and new City boss Enzo Maresca respectively.

    Verdict: NOT AN OVERREACTION

    Chelsea possess the attacking firepower to trouble the elite, but defensive vulnerabilities leave them exposed. Meanwhile, Arsenal and City have claimed maximum points. The Gunners needed a Bruno Guimarães wondergoal to overcome Sunderland, while City survived a first-half red card for Phil Foden to win the Manchester derby at Old Trafford thanks to a controversial Erling Haaland strike.

    Arsenal have barely missed a beat since last season’s triumph, bolstered by shrewd summer recruitment. David Raya remains outstanding in goal, highlighted by his penalty save against Enzo Le Fée, while Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka are hitting early-season stride. Rivals are showing cracks: Liverpool lack a clinical edge under Andoni Iraola, and Manchester United have stumbled under Michael Carrick. Arsenal and City are ticking along efficiently.

    Promoted Clubs Outperforming Last Year’s Cohort?

    Ipswich Town, Hull City, and Coventry City have collectively made a statement. Hull briefly led the table at Stamford Bridge before settling for a 2-2 draw, while Ipswich sit 10th after a dramatic 3-2 win at Crystal Palace.

    Verdict: OVERREACTION

    Hull have been outstanding, accumulating eight points from four matches and remaining undefeated. Manager Sergej Jakirović refuses to raise survival expectations despite the fast start. For context, Sunderland had seven points at this stage last season en route to a seventh-place finish.

    Ipswich have six points thanks to Zian Flemming’s late winner at Selhurst Park. However, Coventry are pointless after a 5-0 home thrashing by Brighton & Hove Albion. Collectively, this year’s promoted sides have amassed 14 points — matching last season’s total from Leeds, Burnley, and Sunderland after four rounds — despite spending approximately €557 million compared to €434 million last summer. Per million spent, last year’s cohort is faring better. It is too early for sweeping judgements, but Hull and Ipswich have started brightly while Coventry face early concerns.

    Arteta Is Right: The Game Remains Unprotected

    Arsenal’s manager was furious over a penalty awarded against his side at Sunderland, while Manchester United raged at Haaland’s match-winner — a goal the Premier League referees’ body, Pro Ref, later admitted involved an “error of judgement.” The case for a VAR overhaul grows stronger.

    Verdict: NOT AN OVERREACTION

    Weekly VAR controversies are becoming the norm. At Sunderland, Ezri Konsa was penalised for fouling Dan Ballard at a corner, though replays suggested Ballard initiated the contact with a judo-roll maneuver. Post-match, Arteta stated: “We have a lot of cameras and VAR, we have to take responsibility to protect the game. Today the game was unprotected, and it could have cost us the game and the momentum which is a really, really serious thing.”

    The following day, Haaland’s winner was initially disallowed for offside before VAR ruled Patrick Dorgu played him onside. However, VAR overlooked Enzo Fernández interfering with play in the six-yard box, clearly attempting a header under pressure from Lisandro Martínez. Both goalkeeper Senne Lammens and Martínez were distracted, leaving Haaland unmarked. Pro Ref subsequently acknowledged the mistake. “It’s worrying if that’s how the game is seen,” Carrick said. Former United star Wayne Rooney summed up the frustration on BBC: “I’m so sick of VAR, it’s horrendous. It takes all the emotion out the game, the energy that the game is played with.”

    Tottenham Destined for Another Relegation Battle?

    Four matches, two points, zero goals. A dreary 0-0 draw with Everton extended Spurs’ goalless run. After back-to-back 17th-place finishes, the alarm bells are ringing.

    Verdict: OVERREACTION

    Context matters. Last season, Aston Villa went five matches without a win before finishing fourth. Villa currently sit one point below Spurs with three defeats. Unai Emery’s rebuild took time; Roberto De Zerbi’s project at Tottenham requires similar patience. A €366.5 million summer outlay brought a revamped midfield and a tenacious manager. Sávio, Omar Marmoush, and Mohammed Kudus need time to adapt, while De Zerbi is visibly nurturing Mathys Tel’s confidence — evidenced by their touchline exchange after the Everton draw. Early results against Brentford, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest were concerning, but Spurs possess the quality to finish in the top half.

    Frank Lampard Has Hit His Ceiling at Coventry?

    Coventry’s grand return to the top flight after 25 years has begun with four defeats, zero goals, and a €160 million summer spend. Lampard, in charge since late 2024, is under intense scrutiny.

    Verdict: OVERREACTION

    When a manager loses the dressing room or the fans, the end is near. Coventry’s supporters remain firmly behind Lampard. The opening fixtures — defeats at Arsenal (3-0), home to Hull (1-0), at Manchester City (1-0) — were daunting. The 5-0 loss to Brighton looks alarming, but Taiwo Awoniyi’s 53rd-minute red card changed the match while Coventry were 2-0 down and creating chances.

    Lampard’s Premier League record is mixed: fourth with Chelsea in 2019-20 before a January 2021 exit; keeping Everton up on the final day in 2022 before sacking in 2023; a winless caretaker spell at Chelsea in 2022-23. Yet Coventry fans applauded their team at full-time on Sunday — no boos, just appreciation for the man who delivered promotion. As the squad adjusts to the division’s pace and physicality, Lampard retains the credit to turn the campaign around. Wins are urgently needed, but the panic is premature.

  • Maresca: Fernandes and Foden Should Have Been Sent Off

    Maresca: Fernandes and Foden Should Have Been Sent Off

    Enzo Maresca Claims Phil Foden and Bruno Fernandes Should Have Seen Red in Manchester Derby

    Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has stated that both Phil Foden and Bruno Fernandes warranted dismissal during Manchester City’s derby victory over Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium.

    Controversial Incidents in Derby Clash

    The Italian manager, speaking after his own side’s fixtures, weighed in on the key talking points from Sunday’s high-profile Premier League encounter. Maresca identified two specific moments where he believes the match officials should have shown red cards to the influential midfielders.

    Foden and Fernandes Under Scrutiny

    Phil Foden, who scored City’s opening goal in the 2-1 win, and United captain Bruno Fernandes were both involved in challenges that Maresca considers worthy of sending-off offenses. The Chelsea boss’s assessment adds to the post-match debate surrounding refereeing decisions in one of English football’s most intense rivalries.

    Manchester City secured all three points thanks to goals from Foden and a late winner, maintaining their pursuit at the top of the table while United’s struggles continued under Erik ten Hag.

  • Chelsea’s defence looks ‘weak & disjointed’ in analysis

    Chelsea’s defence looks ‘weak & disjointed’ in analysis

    Ashley Williams Critiques Chelsea Defence After Hull City Draw

    Match of the Day pundit Ashley Williams has delivered a blunt assessment of Chelsea’s backline following their 2-2 draw against Hull City at Stamford Bridge. The former Wales international described the Blues’ defence as “struggling” and said the unit looked “weak and disjointed” during the Premier League encounter.

    Defensive Shape Questioned at Stamford Bridge

    Chelsea dropped two points at home to the Championship side in a result that has intensified scrutiny on their defensive organisation. Despite taking the lead twice, the hosts were pegged back on both occasions, with Hull exploiting spaces and a lack of coordination between the lines.

    Williams, analysing the match for the BBC highlights programme, did not hold back. He said Chelsea’s “struggling” defence looked “weak and disjointed” throughout the 90 minutes, pointing to poor communication and structural issues that allowed the visitors to create dangerous opportunities.

    Recurring Theme for Blues

    The draw continues a pattern of defensive vulnerability for Chelsea this season. Despite significant summer investment in the backline, the team has conceded goals in the majority of their fixtures, with set-pieces and transitional moments remaining particular areas of concern.

    Head coach Enzo Maresca will face increasing pressure to find a settled centre-back partnership and implement a more cohesive defensive system as the campaign progresses. The international break offers a window for tactical work on the training ground, though several first-team defenders are away on national duty.

    Hull Earn Credit for Resilience

    For Hull City, the result represents a credible point on the road against top-flight opposition. The Tigers showed character to fight back twice, with their forwards capitalising on the spaces afforded by Chelsea’s high line and disjointed covering.

    The Championship club will take confidence from the performance as they target a push for promotion, while Chelsea must quickly address the defensive fragility highlighted so publicly by Williams and evident to anyone watching at Stamford Bridge.

  • Ruben Dias Insists Manchester City Squad Fully Backs Enzo Maresca

    Ruben Dias Insists Manchester City Squad Fully Backs Enzo Maresca

    Manchester City captain Ruben Dias has praised the club’s summer recruitment, stating the new arrivals are “desperate to win” and confirming the squad is fully adopting manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical approach ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes Manchester derby against Manchester United.

    Dias Embraces Leadership Role Amid Squad Transition

    Speaking ahead of the Premier League showdown at Old Trafford, the Portugal international emphasized that his personal responsibilities remain constant despite the significant changes to the playing roster.

    “In terms of the role I have, it goes down to trying to be the best version of yourself, and in terms of that, nothing has changed,” Dias told reporters.

    New Signings Bring Hunger to Title Chase

    The centre-back highlighted the immediate impact of the fresh faces in the dressing room, noting their winning mentality aligns perfectly with the club’s ambitions. Dias suggested the new players have integrated seamlessly into Maresca’s system, adding competitive depth to a squad targeting another trophy-laden season.

    Derby Focus Sharpens Preparations

    With the Manchester derby looming, the City captain indicated the team’s focus is entirely on executing the manager’s game plan. The match represents an early test of Maresca’s philosophy against a local rival, and Dias expressed confidence in the group’s collective readiness.

  • ‘I feel very privileged’: Danny Welbeck reflects on ‘massive’ Chelsea switch

    ‘I feel very privileged’: Danny Welbeck reflects on ‘massive’ Chelsea switch

    Danny Welbeck has expressed a deep sense of privilege following his summer move to Chelsea, marking a significant new chapter for the 35-year-old forward. The veteran striker opened up on his emotions after completing the switch to Stamford Bridge, emphasizing the honor of representing the club at this advanced stage of his career.

    Welbeck Marks Debut with Goal Against Luton

    Welbeck wasted little time making an impact, finding the back of the net on his competitive debut for the Blues. The goal came during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup victory over Luton Town, providing an immediate return on the club’s decision to bring the experienced England international into the squad.

    Reflecting on the transfer, Welbeck admitted he feels ‘privileged’ to make a switch to Chelsea at this stage of his career.

    Contention for Leeds United Clash

    Following his promising start, the forward is now in strong contention to feature again when Chelsea face Leeds United in the next round of the competition. His early fitness and sharpness in front of goal give manager Enzo Maresca a reliable option as the team navigates a demanding fixture schedule across multiple competitions.

    The move reunites Welbeck with a familiar Premier League environment after spells at Manchester United, Arsenal, Watford, and most recently Brighton & Hove Albion. His proven track record in English football’s top flight adds valuable depth and leadership to a youthful Chelsea dressing room.

  • Pep Guardiola’s Departure Triggers an Unprecedented Exodus at Manchester City

    Pep Guardiola’s Departure Triggers an Unprecedented Exodus at Manchester City

    The arrival of Sheikh Mansour transformed Manchester City’s history. Since then, the club has won eight Premier League titles and, most notably, its first long-awaited Champions League trophy, after investing €3.39 billion in signings—second only to Chelsea’s €3.86 billion.

    However, Pep Guardiola’s departure has triggered an exodus that is turning Manchester City’s transfer market into a record-breaking summer.

    Manchester City’s record income from player sales

    In recent years, Manchester City have also become an exemplary club in the way they offload assets to help finance new signings. Since the summer of 2022, the club have generated more than €100 million in player-sales income in every season.

    The previous record came in 2022-23, when City collected €161.9 million from player departures. That figure has more than doubled during the current transfer window, reaching €336.9 million.

    Manchester City’s player-sales income since Sheikh Mansour’s arrival:

    • 2008-09: €26.5 million
    • 2009-10: €29.4 million
    • 2010-11: €40.1 million
    • 2011-12: €31.45 million
    • 2012-13: €44.3 million
    • 2013-14: €11.3 million
    • 2014-15: €30.3 million
    • 2015-16: €67.4 million
    • 2016-17: €35.3 million
    • 2017-18: €91.3 million
    • 2018-19: €57.6 million
    • 2019-20: €71 million
    • 2020-21: €64 million
    • 2021-22: €93.8 million
    • 2022-23: €161.97 million
    • 2023-24: €138.82 million
    • 2024-25: €141.7 million
    • 2025-26: €107.2 million
    • 2026-27: €336.9 million

    Pep Guardiola bids emotional farewell after 10 years at Manchester City

    Enzo Maresca continues City’s rebuilding project

    The appointment of Enzo Maresca took longer than expected because of legal matters awaiting resolution with Chelsea. His arrival was intended to continue the rebuilding process started under Guardiola, who had Maresca on his coaching staff during the 2022-23 season.

    “He was the candidate who stood out the most in our evaluations. We know his personality and his vision of how football should be played. He is upright, charismatic, and passionate. In addition to his successes at Chelsea and Leicester, his track record at City speaks for itself,” explained Ferran Soriano, the club’s CEO.

    “Probably the reason I’m here is also because the club’s idea is to maintain the same style and approach. But we’re going to try to do what matters most, which is to win,” pointed out Enzo Maresca, who also sought to distance himself from Guardiola.

    “I’m not here to try to be a copy of anyone. Every coach is different. Probably, I don’t see football in the same way as the previous coach.”

    I’m not here to try to be a copy of anyone

    — Enzo Maresca, Manchester City coach

    Five of City’s 10 major departures arrived within two years

    To some extent, the plan had been to continue moving on players from the 2023 treble-winning squad, including John Stones, Nathan Aké, Manuel Akanji, Bernardo Silva and even Rodri Hernández, who had one year remaining on his contract.

    Nevertheless, Maresca has not opposed dismantling the squad assembled during the previous transfer windows. Five of Manchester City’s 10 major departures this summer involved players who had been at the club for less than two years.

    Savinho has overtaken Julián Alvarez as the most expensive sale in Manchester City’s history, with the transfer valued at €88 million. Tijjani Reijnders, sold for €61 million, and Rodri, who moved for €60 million, have also entered the club’s top five biggest sales.

    Looking at City’s 10 biggest transfers out, Nico González also features after his €56 million move. The list additionally includes James Trafford, who has become the most expensive English goalkeeper of all time after Leeds paid €47 million, and Marmoush, who joined Tottenham on loan with an obligation to buy—subject to conditions—set at €58 million.

    Manchester City’s most expensive sales:

    • Savinho: $87.7 million, Tottenham
    • Julián Alvarez: €75 million, Atlético de Madrid
    • Tijjani Reijnders: €61 million, Al Qadsiah
    • Rodri Hernández: €60 million, Barcelona
    • Raheem Sterling: €56.2 million, Chelsea
    • Nico González: €56 million, Newcastle
    • Ferran Torres: €55 million, Barcelona
    • Gabriel Jesus: €52 million, Arsenal
    • Leroy Sané: €49 million, Bayern Munich
    • Cole Palmer: $47 million, Chelsea

    City have spent €274 million on new signings

    The scale of Manchester City’s transfer income has overshadowed the fact that the club have spent €274 million on signings this summer. Only Chelsea (€398 million) and Tottenham (€354 million) have spent more.

    Most of City’s spending has gone toward Elliot Anderson, the most expensive signing in the club’s history at €135 million, and Ayyoub Bouaddi, who has become the 18-year-old player for whom the highest transfer fee has ever been paid, at €95 million.

    They have also signed Detourbet for €25 million before loaning him to Monaco after his arrival from City’s Troyes ‘affiliate’, as well as the highly rated young Jeremy Monga, born in 2009, Gero Rulli for €3.5 million and Pierce Charles for €3.5 million.

    “It’s the market and anything can happen. We’ll see, there are still four or five days left. But, at this moment, it’s quite complicated for me to think about this,” he said ahead of the match against Crystal Palace.

    He did, however, stress that he would like “to have two players for each position.” If that is not possible, Maresca will turn to the academy, where McAidoo, Floyd Samba and Kaden Braithwaite are pushing for opportunities.

    It’s the market and anything can happen

    — Enzo Maresca, Manchester City coach

    Manchester City still targeting late signings

    Maresca is not satisfied with the squad, despite the first signs of progress in the match against Crystal Palace.

    Allan, a winger from Palmeiras, is set to arrive after City agreed a €40 million transfer to fill the gap left by Savinho. Enzo Fernández could also become the major late-window signing, with a potential fee that would surpass Elliot Anderson’s and make him the most expensive signing in Manchester City’s history.

    With four days remaining in the transfer window, fresh money is available in Manchester City’s Etihad coffers.