Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has expressed confidence in his squad despite facing significant uncertainty over several key players ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth. The Italian coach acknowledged the departure of star midfielder Rodri to Barcelona and the expected exit of winger Savinho, who has been strongly linked with Tottenham Hotspur, while insisting the club remains prepared for further movement before the transfer window closes.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Maresca revealed the challenge of retaining players determined to seek opportunities elsewhere. He explained that both Rodri and Savinho made clear their intentions to leave, noting that once a player expresses such desire, convincing them to stay becomes complicated. Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush has also been linked with a potential departure, though Maresca described his situation as different from Savinho’s case.
City enter the new season following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in last week’s Community Shield, adding pressure to their campaign opening. The manager suggested limited playing time had been a common factor behind several players seeking moves away from the Etihad Stadium, stating that those who didn’t feature regularly preferred to explore other options.
With less than two weeks remaining before the transfer deadline, Maresca confirmed City officials are working closely on potential additions, though he declined to discuss specific targets or numbers. Media reports have linked the club with Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi and Chelsea’s Argentina international Enzo Fernandez as possible reinforcements.
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