Several players wanted Fernandez updates – Maresca

Manchester City players inquired about Enzo Fernandez's potential arrival at the club in the final days of the transfer window, as they were eager to play alongside the Argentine international, according to manager Enzo Maresca. The 25-year-old joined City from Chelsea for a joint British record £125 million fee on deadline day.

Maresca stated that Fernandez is "ready" to make his debut for the Premier League side against newly promoted Coventry City this Saturday at the Etihad Stadium. He praised Fernandez for his "winner's mentality" and leadership qualities, noting that the player's presence would be welcomed by other successful teammates. Maresca confirmed Ruben Dias as the new City captain, replacing Bernardo Silva, who left the club in the summer.

He also mentioned that the presence of Fernandez and other leaders like Erling Haaland, Marc Guehi, and Gianluigi Donnarumma would bring the team closer to their goals. Fernandez had expressed his desire to join City since the start of the year, despite initial negotiations with his former club Chelsea. City's transfer window was a record £458 million spend, including Fernandez's signing along with other key acquisitions like midfielders Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi, wingers Iliman Ndiaye and Allan, and backup goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli.

The club reportedly recouped over £300 million from player sales during the window. Maresca expressed his satisfaction with the ownership and board for bringing the squad together, stating that the club is now complete and ready to work on their objectives.