Enzo Maresca, head coach of Manchester City, has expressed optimism on his side emerging victorious over FC Porto when they clash on Tuesday night in the UCL.
The former Chelsea manager, at his pre-match presser, described FC Porto as an “aggressive” team, however, said, the Cityzens “can win”.
The Blues will be heading into the showdown with a very high morale after winning all three (3) English Premier League games against AFC Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Coventry City, 2-1, 4-1 and 1-0 respectively.
Porto have also won all their games in the new season, winning five (5) out of five (5). Both the Cityzens and the Dragons are toppers in their respective Leagues.
On the availability of players, the Italian pro football manager made known his doubt on Nico O’Reilly, saying, the English left-back will “probably” be available for the weekend.
Also, on Jeremy Doku, Maresca disclosed his uncertainty; he said, he is “not sure”. He described the Uefa Champions League as a “special and nice” tournament.
Manchester City will play against FC Porto in the Uefa Champions League 2026/27 League Phase match on Tuesday 8 September, 2026 at 20:00 (WAT) at Estádio do Dragão in Porto, Portugal.
According to Manchester City official X account, Maresca said:
On O’Reilly and Doku availability for the weekend…
“Nico, probably yes. Jérémy, we are not sure. We will have to wait.”
On expectations from Manchester City…
“I said many times that when you are Manchester City, the expectations are always higher. I try to be more focused on the day-by-day. It’s very complicated to think about where we can be in February, March or April in terms of expectations.”
On the Uefa Champions League…
“It is a special competition. I was here in the Treble season and had some good experiences and last season with Chelsea. It’s a nice competition – it’s a different one. Different competition, but the ambition for us has to be the same. Try to be ourselves, try to win games and then we will see.”
On FC Porto…
“[FC Porto] are a very, very good team. They have different players, but in terms of team, it’s very clear in the way they play. They are aggressive without the ball and on the ball. They have a clear style… but hopefully tomorrow we can win.”
Next contest for Manchester City?
Manchester City will face neighbours, Manchester United in the Premier League 2026/27 match on Sunday 13 September, 2026 at Old Trafford at 16:30 (WAT).
Maresca’s Cityzens are currently at the top of standings with nine (9) points, while, Michael Carrick’s Manchester United are 11th with four (4) points.
