Premier League3 hours ago2 minute read

Six Of The Best For Maresca As Man City Youth Shine In Cup Win

Enzo Maresca secured his sixth straight win as Manchester City manager with a 5-0 victory over Norwich City in the Carabao Cup.

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Perfect Start Continues

Enzo Maresca has enjoyed a perfect start to life at Manchester City. A 5-0 win over Norwich City in the Carabao Cup on Thursday made it six wins from six games under the Italian manager. Despite resting key players, his team cruised into the next round.

Maresca admitted that it is normal for fans to have doubts when a new manager replaces a legendary coach. However, the early results are helping to ease those concerns quickly. "I'm very happy with these six games in a row, but now the main focus is just on the next one," Maresca said. He added that he is not looking more than one week ahead because things can change quickly.

Youth and Squad Players Shine

With Erling Haaland rested, Floyd Samba started up front and scored twice on his senior debut. The 17 year old scored his first after 29 minutes and added a second before the hour mark. Samba, the son of former Blackburn defender Chris Samba, called the experience "mind blowing" after the match.

Other squad players also made their mark. Rayan Cherki scored his third goal of the season in the first half. Brazilian winger Allan marked his first appearance since arriving from Palmeiras with a goal and an assist, while 18 year old Ryan McAidoo came off the bench to score the fifth.

At the back, young defenders Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis helped secure a fourth consecutive clean sheet. Gerónimo Rulli started in goal to give Gianluigi Donnarumma a rest.

Bigger Challenges Ahead

City have already recorded impressive wins against FC Porto and Manchester United this season. The tactical performance with 10 men at Old Trafford showed what Maresca can do in difficult circumstances.

While tougher tests await after the international break, including away to Liverpool and home to Paris Saint-Germain, the squad depth looks strong. Marc Guéhi and Rúben Dias are expected to return to the lineup for Sunday's league game against Sunderland. Maresca pointed out that squad players will be vital when injuries and suspensions pile up later in the season.

What it means for the next game

Manchester City vs Sunderland (Premier League, Sun, 20 Sep): Manchester City win 72%, draw 18%, Sunderland win 10%; expected goals 2.29 to 0.75. Our safest pick: Manchester City to win.