‘The kind of player that I love’ – Maresca excited by potential of young City star

Manchester City coach Roberto Maresca expressed his excitement over the potential of young winger Ryan McAidoo, praising him as the type of player he admires. The 18-year-old, who is expected to start for City in their upcoming Carabao Cup match against Norwich, has already made two substitute appearances in the Premier League this season.

Maresca recalled his first press conference, stating that he said McAidoo is "the kind of winger that I love" because he is fearless, always aggressive, and forward-thinking. The City boss also highlighted McAidoo's performance in the two short Premier League outings he has had, emphasizing that nothing has changed with the young player.

McAidoo is one of three academy graduates promoted to the first team by Maresca this summer, joining Floyd Samba and Kaden Braithwaite. Both Samba and Braithwaite have been described as physically strong and versatile, with Samba playing as an attacking midfielder and Braithwaite capable of excelling as a central defender or full-back.

Maresca noted that the academy graduates have a different outlook compared to players who are not from the club's academy, stating that City feels like their home for them.