Manchester City's Italian coach, EnzoMaresca, appeared at the press conference prior to the match against Ipswich Town with a curious reference to the famous “bananas” that fans have once again used at the Etihad Stadium. The coach, who did not know the tradition, expressed his desire for the stadium to be filled with these inflatables and added with humor that his four children had already asked him for one.
Maresca took the opportunity to talk about the unity that has emerged in the club after the recent controversy over alleged financial violations. “Since all this noise started, I see the fans, the club and the team more united, without a doubt,” he said, stressing that the controversy has not increased the pressure on the team. In his message, the Italian emphasized that the main objective is to win the game against Ipswich and that “we have to try to make our own noise” on the pitch.
The coach also addressed the management of the players' physical load. He mentioned that he is considering resting ErlingHaaland and other players who combine club matches with international commitments. "It's not just Erling, there are other players who are playing all the games with us and with their national teams. At some point we have to give them a rest," he explained. In addition, he confirmed that PhilFoden would be available again after serving his suspension.
Regarding the relationship with PepGuardiola, Maresca recalled a conversation after the 2-4 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain. “We talked about the first half and the second,” he commented, adding that Guardiola had been positive with what he had seen. "It was also great for the fans to see him in the stadium. This will always be his home," he concluded.
With the victory against Ipswich, Manchester City would seek their seventh consecutive victory in the Premier League, maintaining their winning streak and strengthening their position in the table. The team prepares for the match with the hope that bananas will fill the Etihad again and that the performance on the field will continue to boost the club's campaign.