Maresca explains why Sunderland clash is a big test for Man City
By Joel Masibo, September 20, 2026Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca expects Sunderland to provide a major examination when the two sides meet at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
City head into the Premier League encounter aiming to make it seven consecutive victories under Maresca, but the Italian believes Sunderland’s performances this season mean his side cannot afford to be complacent.
Sunderland enjoyed an impressive return to the Premier League last season, securing seventh place and earning qualification for the Europa League. Their strong form has continued into the new campaign, with Régis Le Bris’ side already registering three 1-0 victories across all competitions.
The Black Cats have also secured a 1-1 draw away to Brentford and recently pushed defending champions Arsenal hard, a performance that particularly impressed Maresca.
Maresca admits Sunderland is a strong side
The City boss has spent considerable time studying Sunderland ahead of the meeting and believes their organisation and intensity make them a formidable opponent.
“I watched them already in the last two days, three or four games. I know them already,” Maresca said.
“I know how strong they are, and I have the feeling that on Sunday we need a top performance to beat them, and we need to be 100 per cent to win the game.
“I watched the game live against Arsenal, and then I watched again the last two days. If you watch the game, you can realise how strong they are. I think personally that they didn’t deserve to lose that game.
“But again, they are very strong, very well coached from their manager. And again, they are already have time together, so you can see what they want to do on the ball and off the ball.
“My feeling is, after watching them, is that on Sunday it will be the toughest game since the start of the season.”
Maresca says Sunderland is a competing side
Maresca said Sunderland’s progress should not be viewed simply through the lens of their promotion, insisting their performances explain why they have been able to compete so effectively against established Premier League opposition.
“If you watch them, you are not surprised [at how well they have done], because you will realise how good they are, how good they are on the ball, off the ball, how aggressive they are, the amount of duels that they win every game.
“So, yeah, if you’re just thinking about, the team got promoted and then [qualify for] Europe, you are surprised – but if you watch them, you are not surprised because you realise how good they are.
“But in front of our fans, it’s always nice and special to play, so much better to play here than away.
“It’s important because in case we win, it’s one more win. But as I say, I have the feeling that Sunderland game will be the toughest game since we started the season.”
The Manchester City boss also provided an update on Jérémy Doku, suggesting the winger could return to the squad for the weekend fixture.
“Probably he can be available for Sunderland.”
The match is scheduled for a 2:00 pm UK and 4:00 pm EAT kick-off at the Etihad Stadium, with City looking to continue their winning run while Sunderland attempt to produce another result against one of the Premier League’s leading sides.