Maresca says it is ‘poor’ to focus on Haaland’s derby goal over performance

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Enzo Maresca claims that focusing on Erling Haaland’s Manchester derby goal instead of how well they played with 10 men is “poor”.

Manchester City beat rivals Manchester United 1-0 in the Premier League on Sunday, playing with 10 men from the 23rd minute after Phil Foden’s red card for kicking out at Bruno Fernandes.

Haaland scored the winner on the hour, with the goal given after a lengthy VAR check, though controversy surrounded the decision.

Enzo Fernandez – in an offside position – attempted to head the ball but did not make contact before Haaland scored, with Pro Ref, the governing body, later confirming they had contacted United to concede an error had been made.

However, Maresca feels that decision should not take away from City’s dominance, as they outperformed United to maintain their 100% start to the Premier League this term.

“To talk about one moment after that game when we played for 70, 75 minutes with 10 players is quite poor,” Maresca said in his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Norwich City in the EFL Cup third round.

“I think the performance was unbelievable and I’m pleased.

“[On Thursday], it’s another competition, but the ambition is the same. There is no VAR, but we don’t plan the game in a different way.”

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 15, 2026

City are the reigning EFL Cup champions and begin their defence of the trophy at home to Norwich on Thursday, having won six of their last seven home games against the Canaries in all competitions (L1).

They have progressed from each of their last 18 EFL Cup ties against lower-league opponents since going out on penalties to League One Brighton in the 2008-09 second round.

City have also progressed from 12 of their last 13 EFL Cup third-round ties, failing only in 2023-24 when they lost 0-1 to Newcastle United.

Asked where the EFL Cup ranks in terms of importance for City this season, Maresca said: “One more competition.

“We need to compete in all of the competitions. We will try our best, and we will see where we finish.

“They are all tricky games, different games. We need to do our job in the right way, and I have no doubt it will be a tricky game for many reasons.”

City will be without the suspended Foden on Thursday, while Jeremy Doku is “quite close” but unlikely to feature against Norwich.

Maresca has confirmed he will be making changes, though, as he looks to get his players ready for the busier schedule later in the year.

“For sure we will make some changes, but I don’t know many. For different reasons,” he added.

“The ones that are going to play, I’m sure that they are going to play important games in the Premier League or Champions League. Now it’s early season with no injuries or suspended players. In November, December, January and February, with the amount of games, we will need rest.

“The players that are going to play tomorrow, it’s an opportunity for them to get better and better. At some point, we need them.”

Premier League News

Joao Pedro thrilled by success of his connection with Palmer and Rogers

Premier League News

When Tottenham ‘click’, they will win many games, claims De Zerbi

Premier League News

Arteta: Brilliant Dowman made the difference

Premier League News

Brentford ‘going to attack EFL Cup as hard as we can’, insists Andrews

Premier League News

Iraola impressed by Liverpool energy in EFL Cup win over Spurs

Premier League News

Arbeloa questions Fulham defence in win over West Ham

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.