Overview
- Enzo Maresca took charge for the first time on Saturday in Hong Kong as City drew 1-1 with Inter Milan and lost the friendly on penalties.
- Players have given public support to Maresca, with Josko Gvardiol calling him 'perfect' and Antoine Semenyo saying the new coach’s wide, direct attacking approach is 'music to my ears.'
- Match and training reports show Maresca trialled fluid, interchangeable positioning with wide, high wingers and inverted full-backs to strengthen possession and attack.
- The touring squad is incomplete because World Cup participants were given extended rest and the summer exits of Bernardo Silva and John Stones have left leadership and selection choices to be resolved.
- Maresca said the team will improve as pre-season continues and he will use the remaining Asia fixtures to refine tactics, assess fitness and clarify captaincy and transfer priorities.