Maresca finally fields full Manchester City squad as preseason ramps up

On the sun‑drenched pitches of Asis, Enzo Maresca finally gathered his full Manchester City squad for a preseason training session, marking the first time the cavalry could work together after a week of assessing players whose nations advanced to the quarter‑finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Maresca used the break to evaluate the majority of his squad, excluding those whose countries progressed to, or beyond, the quarter‑final stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This assessment left only a handful of players still absent from training.

Preseason ideas on tour

During City’s preseason tour of Asis, Maresca began communicating his tactical concepts to the group. The sessions aimed to embed his ideas before the competitive fixtures commence.

Cavalry back on the pitch

Now the cavalry has resumed preseason drills alongside the rest of the Manchester City squad. The collective training marks a step up in preparation ahead of the season opener.

All players are present except midfielder Rodri, who is not due back until Friday. Yesterday the final batch of squad members joined their teammates, including Erling Haaland, Elliot Anderson, Nico O’Reilly, Marc Guehi, Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki, each training under Maresca for the first time. Rodri’s absence is notable as Barcelona are determined to sign him this summer.

Upcoming fixtures and transfer rumblings

Attention now turns to the FA Community Shield clash with Arsenal in Cardiff on Sunday, followed by a Premier League opener against Bournemouth at the Etihad the following week. Maresca will focus on Mikel Arteta’s side while also navigating potential squad changes before the transfer window closes.

City remain active in the market, seeking two midfielders and an additional attacking option. Savinho appears destined to leave, and the possibilities of Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders departing are described as very real.

With the majority of the squad back in training, Maresca can now fine‑tune his system, even though Rodri’s future remains uncertain. The intensified preseason should provide a solid foundation for the upcoming Shield and league campaigns.