Maresca praises McAidoo as his ideal winger in Hong Kong friendly

Enzo Maresca’s first game in charge of Manchester City ended in a penalty‑shootout defeat by Inter Milan at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium, a non‑competitive friendly that still drew more than 40,000 supporters and saw teenager Ryan McAidoo steal the spotlight. The match, reported by a Manchester City reporter in Hong KongPublished24 minutes ago, was billed as a repeat of the 2023 Champions League final, but the result mattered little compared with the pre‑season performances on display.

The atmosphere reflected the significance of the occasion despite its friendly status. Over 40,000 fans filled the stadium for the repeat of the Champions League final, creating a buzz that ensured McAidoo’s name would be on everyone’s lips after the final whistle.

The 18‑year‑old McAidoo, signed from Chelsea two years ago, had already made an impression on the club. He earned his first‑team debut under former boss Pep Guardiola and scored in the 10‑1 FA Cup demolition of Exeter City, later featuring against Salford in the next round.

"We have been speaking with the club about Ryan and since day one he is that kind of winger I love," Maresca said, adding, "Very aggressive one‑v‑one, always trying, making the right decision. But he is young and he needs the right path." The Italian manager’s praise highlighted the teenager’s aggressive style and potential.

McAidoo entered the fray at the start of the second half, replacing City goalscorer Divin Mubama. He immediately showed his intent, taking on Inter Milan defenders, delivering a low cross after a quick dart that was cut out at the near post, and refusing to stand still.

His attacking thrust almost produced the winning goal: he clipped a low shot against the foot of the post, while a subsequent effort drifted narrowly wide. Those moments underscored his capacity to influence a match in crucial moments.

Contributor Harry, writing on a live text page, likened McAidoo to academy graduates Phil Foden, Nico O’Reilly and Cole Palmer, saying, "I get the feeling I had with Foden, O’Reilly and Palmer when it comes to McAidoo. You just feel like he’s ready to play. He is so positive and wants to go forward constantly."

When asked about McAidoo’s future, Maresca responded, "At the moment, with most of the young players, the idea was to see them in pre‑season and then decide. We started 10 days ago. Ryan is working well, he just has to continue then we will take the right decision. I am always very open with the young players. When I was at Leicester, that season there was a record number of debutants. When I was at Chelsea, record debutants from the academy. If they are good, there is no problem."

The friendly ultimately went to penalties, with Inter Milan prevailing, but the result was secondary to the performances on display. McAidoo left the pitch as the star of the show, earning Maresca’s endorsement and a chorus of praise from fans and commentators alike.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, McAidoo scored on his Man City first‑team debut last season