Maresca Hails Enzo Fernandez Ahead of Manchester Derby
The Italian manager’s comments come as Fernández prepares for his first Manchester derby since completing his move to City.
New Manchester City Midfielder Enzo Fernandez. Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has praised the rapid development of Enzo Fernández, highlighting the Argentine midfielder’s attacking qualities, leadership and winning mentality following his high-profile move from Chelsea.
Fernández joined City from Chelsea on transfer deadline day for a British record-equalling £125 million fee, reuniting with Maresca, who previously worked with him at Stamford Bridge. The 25-year-old midfielder signed a five-year contract with the Premier League champions.
Maresca believes Fernández has evolved considerably over the past two years, particularly in his ability to influence matches in the attacking third.
“He’s improving a lot. Probably in the last two years with us he became more of an attacking midfielder,” Maresca said.
“In the past he was a little bit more deep. But I think he’s unbelievable around the box in terms of goals and assists, and also leadership. He’s growing a lot.”
The Italian manager’s comments come as Fernández prepares for his first Manchester derby since completing his move to City.
Fernández has already made an encouraging start to life at the Etihad. He made his debut in City’s 1-0 Premier League victory over Coventry City, providing the assist for the decisive goal scored by Erling Haaland. He subsequently featured in City’s Champions League victory over Porto.
Maresca believes the midfielder’s influence goes beyond his technical ability. The manager has also been impressed by the mentality Fernández brings to a squad undergoing significant changes.
“You can see his teammates, how they speak about him in terms of winners’ mentality,” Maresca said.
“Players who have already won know how to win, and it’s important that they are in our squad.”
Fernández arrives at City with significant experience at the highest level. The Argentina international was part of the team that won the 2022 World Cup and has also enjoyed success at club level.
His ability to operate deeper in midfield while also contributing goals and assists gives Maresca another option as City reshape their midfield following the departures of several established players.
The manager has particularly stressed Fernández’s development around the opposition penalty area, where his passing, movement and ability to arrive in scoring positions can provide an additional attacking threat.
His first appearance for City also offered an early indication of what Maresca expects from him. Against Coventry, Fernández displayed composure in possession and produced the pass that ultimately led to Haaland’s winning goal. Reuters reported that his performance provided an encouraging start to his City career.
Maresca also pointed to Fernández’s attitude away from his technical qualities, praising his work ethic and professionalism.
The City manager said the midfielder’s willingness to work hard every day, combined with his experience of winning major trophies, makes him an important addition to the squad.
Fernández’s arrival is part of a major rebuilding exercise at Manchester City under Maresca. The club has undergone significant squad changes following Pep Guardiola’s departure, with City investing heavily in the transfer market as they seek to challenge for major honours.
For Fernández, the move represents another major stage in his career after successful spells at Benfica and Chelsea.
He now faces the immediate challenge of establishing himself in a new midfield and adapting to the demands of playing for City.
Maresca’s confidence in his former player will raise expectations, but the manager believes Fernández has the qualities required to succeed.
With his attacking development, leadership and experience of winning major trophies, Fernández is quickly becoming an important figure in Maresca’s plans as City prepare for the Manchester derby and the rest of the campaign.
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