City travel to Old Trafford for the first meeting of the two sides since Maresca took charge of City in the summer.
It’s the 199th instalment of this historic rivalry, regarded by many as one of the fiercest derbies in world football.
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Having been in professional football for almost 30 years, Maresca has already experienced some of the biggest local matchups in Europe.
Speaking in his press conference at the City Football Academy on Friday, Maresca made it clear that he’s aware of the importance of these matches to fans above and beyond the need for three points.
“It’s very important for different reasons,” he began.
“It’s a derby. Especially for the club, for the fans. Special game and most important thing we can do is be ourselves and then we will see the final result.
“Every derby is more or less similar. I have been in different ones.
“The worst was Olympiacos v Panathinaikos because that was very hot. Juventus, Torino. Sevilla, Betis. As a manager with Chelsea.
“They are all special games for the fans first of all, for the coaching staff, a special game for everyone.
“I want these kinds of games. I like these kinds of games.”
The short trip comes in the same week as a Champions League victory in Porto on Tuesday night.
Erling Haaland’s brace won the game there against the Portuguese champions, with Maresca particularly pleased with the way his players handled an intense atmosphere on and off the pitch.
He’s asked for them to do similar this time around.
“I think the most important thing for the players is to be focused on the game,” he said.
“Something similar with Porto, complicated stadium. The environment is fantastic.
“I know that it’s different at Old Trafford. The main focus for the players is the game, the game plan, how we can win, how we can impress.”
Premier League 2026/27 home tickets now on sale
General admission tickets for Manchester City’s home 2026/27 Premier League fixtures are on sale to Premium, Matchday and Junior Members.
Season Ticket Members, meanwhile, are now also able to purchase additional tickets for selected games.
Premier League match-by-match ticket prices for junior and adult Matchday Members have been retained at the same rate for a third consecutive season.
It promises to be another thrilling campaign for the Blues as we enter a new era under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, who takes over from Pep Guardiola in the hotseat.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium for our Premier League fixtures now!
