Manchester City celebrate win but warn of set‑piece lapses

Manchester City defeated Sunderland 5‑3 on Sunday (20) in a match that produced eight goals and sustained intensity throughout the 90 minutes. Despite the positive result, manager Enzo Maresca did not hide his dissatisfaction with the defensive display, particularly on set pieces.

Defensive lapses under scrutiny

Two of the three goals conceded were described by Maresca as "very easy". He highlighted that the second goal stemmed from a rapid free‑kick by Granit Xhaka, adding, "that cannot happen again". The third also originated from a set‑piece, which he called "far too easy".

While conceding, City also produced five goals and, in Maresca’s view, could have added two or three more. "We gave away more chances, but we also scored five and probably could have made two or three extra," he told Sky Sport after the final whistle.

The result keeps City on a positive run early in the season, yet the eight‑goal spectacle serves as a warning. Maresca stressed that the team still has several aspects to correct, especially the variety of situations encountered in the opening fixtures.

Para Maresca, each opponent presents a different challenge. He noted, "We have played seven matches and all were different, which is good because we can learn from each one. Every game demands different things."

When asked if the match could be described as "crazy", Maresca replied, "For us, it was not a crazy game. I said before the match I expected a very difficult encounter, and we still conceded two or three goals, but we learned a lot in these eight weeks, which is good."

Looking ahead to the Liverpool clash

City now turn their attention to the upcoming classic against Liverpool at Anfield on 10 October, following the FIFA international break.