Maresca: We're Happy, but Hungry for More

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca stated that while everyone is delighted with the team's start to the season, they remain hungry for more victories. The "Cityzens" are flying high in the Premier League, standing as the only team with a 100% record after seven rounds. Unfazed by speculation surrounding potential sanctions, the squad has been playing with great confidence and spirit. On Saturday, City face a stern test away at Aston Villa as they look to extend their winning streak in the league.

Here is what manager Enzo Maresca had to say at his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to Villa Park:

On the fitness of Erling Haaland, Nico O'Reilly, Matheus Nunes, and Mateo Kovacic, who missed the previous match:

- We have a training session this afternoon. They might all be available, or they might not. They remain doubtful. Yesterday, everyone's condition was improving. Erling is the only one who is 100 percent available. For the rest, we have to wait for today's session. It's great to have depth in the squad—it gives me plenty of options. However, it's always difficult to keep everyone happy. Whenever we decide to give players minutes, they need to be fully prepared. The atmosphere is very positive; we're pleased with our start, but we remain hungry for more wins.

On whether Liverpool can be written off in the title race with a nine-point gap between the two sides:

- It is far too early to talk about that. We are still in the opening stages of the season.

On the away fixture against Aston Villa:

- I have huge respect for Unai Emery. He has succeeded everywhere he has worked. Their identity is crystal clear—they play with immense intensity out of possession. I respect Unai immensely, and I expect a very tough fixture. Going to Villa Park is always a difficult challenge. We're satisfied with where we are, but we want more.

On areas where City can improve:

- Everything. We can attack better and defend better. Over the last three games, we boasted the best defensive record in the Premier League, but then we conceded two goals. We can also refine our build-up play. This is a new project, so I have no doubt we can grow. I'm very happy and feel privileged to be here. The club is doing fantastic work. When you lose key players alongside the manager, it naturally takes time to rebuild and become competitive. Yet we are already competitive again—that is a massive achievement.

Out of all our games so far, the match against PSG was the one where we learned the most. Naturally, I prefer winning. The players are eager to learn and improve—that is the most rewarding feeling. They are making real progress. It has been less than four months, so I'm certain they will get even better. Different fixtures demand different approaches. The contrast between our first and second halves was huge, but there are valuable lessons to take from every match. The mood in the dressing room after PSG was positive. The players recognize that if we compete the way we want to, we can perform at the required level.

On whether he believes he can win the title in his debut season at Manchester City:

- We've won seven in a row, but we want more—another one this Saturday. After that, we'll see.

On whether Cherki, Foden, and Haaland can feature together:

- Well, it depends on the match plan. I certainly believe they can play together—yes!

On Rayan Cherki's form:

- In my view, football is a team game, not one decided by an individual. Every player is special. Rayan is a top-class player, but we have 20 more like him. At the moment, Rayan is among the best in Europe—when he finds the right space and we supply him between the lines, he is consistently dangerous. When he is in that position, he becomes a lethal weapon. The same goes for his work in training. I've been fortunate enough to witness greatness firsthand—I played alongside Del Piero and Zidane.