Maresca: Manchester Derby is Crucial for Many Reasons, Carrick Doing Fantastic Work

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has emphasized the significance of the upcoming Manchester Derby against United. The two teams are set to clash at Old Trafford on Sunday, marking Maresca's first time leading the Citizens in this fixture. City currently boasts a perfect record after the first three rounds of the season.

Maresca began his press conference with team news and praised Michael Carrick's work at Old Trafford.

“Nico O’Reilly is 100% available. Jérémy Doku needs a few more days.”

“Michael Carrick did a fantastic job last season. He took over the team in a very difficult situation and finished the campaign exceptionally well. To a greater or lesser extent, they've started this season in a similar vein. He's doing a very good job.”

“This match is incredibly important for various reasons. We know how crucial the derby is for the club, for the fans, for everyone. It's a special game. The most important thing we can do is try to be ourselves – just as we have been so far.”

“The main thing for the players is to stay focused on the match. We experienced something similar in the Champions League – visiting Porto is a tough test, and the atmosphere there is fantastic. I'm not saying it's the same, because the environment at Old Trafford is completely different, but the primary focus must be on the tactical plan – how to win, how to press, how to perform better.”

“I'm not thinking about myself; I'm thinking more about the team, the fans, the standings, and the opportunity to win. Of course, it's important for me too, but my main thought isn't simply, 'This is my first derby, and I want to win.' Of course, I want the victory, but the reason is that we want to keep winning matches. That's good for everyone. We can continue in the same spirit. Last year, the match didn't go our way, but I hope this season will be successful,” Maresca stated at his press conference today.