Enzo Maresca offered every Manchester City player an opportunity to make an impression

At the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, it became clear which Manchester City players would be leaving the club. However, the arrival of manager Enzo Maresca provided his players with a chance to make a lasting impression. Maresca's arrival signaled a fresh start for the entire squad. Speaking ahead of Manchester City's final preseason friendly against Atletico Madrid, Maresca emphasized that every player began the preseason on equal footing.

He stated, "The only thing I have said since I start to the players is that for me it’s a new reset. All of them start at same level." The preseason friendlies provided Maresca with an opportunity to observe his players closely and shape the club's transfer decisions. Several players have taken advantage of this opportunity to prove their worth.

Nico Gonzalez, a Spanish midfielder, had fallen down the pecking order under Pep Guardiola and was set to see a more prominent role under Maresca. Similarly, Brazilian international Savinho, who had lost favor last season, has impressed in the friendlies, raising questions about his future at the club. Other players who have impressed include Divin Mubama, Rico Lewis, and Vitor Reis.

Maresca's preseason plans have created uncertainty about the direction of the Manchester City squad for the upcoming season.