Maresca embraces hard-fought Man City victory over Coventry
By Joel Masibo, September 6, 2026Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has admitted that his team did not produce their prettiest performance against Coventry City, but he was satisfied after watching his side grind out a 1-0 win at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Maresca’s team created opportunities to extend their advantage but were unable to put the game beyond Coventry. Instead, the visitors grew into the contest and threatened to punish City for failing to finish the match earlier.
The City boss nevertheless viewed the difficult circumstances as valuable for his players, particularly after Coventry produced a determined second-half display.
“I was pleased with the win, for different reasons. We kept them [Coventry] alive. We couldn’t score one or two more, at least. We suffer together until the end; not all the wins are going to be nice. We need these kinds of wins.
“It was a little bit of an ugly win. It’s something we need and a clean sheet is important,” Maresca stated.
The victory also provided Maresca with an early opportunity to assess one of his biggest deadline-day arrivals.
Enzo Fernandez, who joined City from Chelsea for a reported £125 million, was forced into action after Nico O’Reilly suffered an injury during the warm-up. Despite having only arrived two days earlier, the Argentine midfielder started the game and immediately made an impression.
Fernandez played a role in the decisive move, delivering the pass that released Antoine Semenyo before Haaland ultimately finished the attack.
Maresca was particularly pleased with the midfielder’s ability to adapt so quickly, having previously worked with Fernandez.
“Enzo only arrived two days ago; he’s been frustrated the last two or three weeks.
“In the end he plays from the start and I’m quite happy. We’ve shared time together, so it’s easier because we know each other very well. And I know he’s going to help us win games,” he said.