Manchester City's strong start to the Premier League season, with two wins from two games, has brought optimism as they adapt under new manager Enzo Maresca. The victory at Crystal Palace was celebrated by thousands of travelling fans who witnessed four goals and an entertaining display.
Ayyoub Bouaddi made his City debut in the final minutes, but more work remains in the transfer window as sporting director Hugo Viana looks to support Maresca's ambitions across all competitions. Time is running out for City to complete their business, though they remain confident of landing their biggest target: Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez.
Fan concerns over Enzo Fernandez
One fan, Old Dave, questioned whether City should pursue Fernandez given the expected backlash at Premier League grounds, suggesting alternatives like Adam Wharton. Simon Bajkowski acknowledged that some fans may not overlook Fernandez's past, referencing a video from two years ago where he sang with Argentina teammates using racist and transphobic slurs, for which he apologised.
Maresca, however, is willing to move past that, and his support carries weight. The pair worked together at Chelsea, where Fernandez spoke out about Maresca's departure and received a two-match ban. With Rodri and Bernardo Silva among those who have left, bringing in Maresca's first-choice midfielder would signal backing from the club.
Bajkowski suggested that abuse of Fernandez might be limited outside Stamford Bridge, noting that rival fans often target such players, but that can strengthen support from their own club, as seen with Bernardo Silva. If a deal with Chelsea fails, Adam Wharton remains an option, but all signs point toward Fernandez.
Other targets: Gakpo, Ndiaye, and Kone
Fans asked about other signings, including Allan, Fernandez, Ndiaye, and Kone. City are indeed seeking another forward, with Cody Gakpo and Iliman Ndiaye under consideration. Everton might accept a big offer, and Jack Grealish could be used to sweeten a deal, though as of Saturday evening, Gakpo appeared more likely.
The possibility of buying a Liverpool player reflects the unusual nature of this window. Because City have left much of their business late, they are lining up multiple deals and deciding which to trigger, unlike the long-term pursuits of Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi.
City also want another midfielder, though replacing every departed player will be difficult. Roma's Manu Kone is one of several options, but whether a deal can be completed in time remains uncertain.
Haaland back-up and youth prospects
A fan asked about a backup for Erling Haaland, noting the lack of a recognised No.9 after Omar Marmoush's exit. Spanish media linked Julian Alvarez with a return, but that seems unlikely. City may head into the season without another striker, increasing dependence on Haaland and vulnerability to injury.
Players like Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki can play up front, and with Maresca giving wingers more responsibility, targeting two wide forwards makes sense. A Haaland backup is a difficult role to fill, especially near the deadline, but the attack has looked more fluid, offering alternative solutions.
On Jeremy Monga, he is set to stay with the first team, training regularly and seeking minutes where possible. Ryan McAidoo appears ahead of him, given his age and longer tenure. Monga may also get Under-21 minutes in the first half of the season, with a reassessment later.
Set-piece approach under Maresca
One fan raised the lack of goals from set-pieces. Maresca has made clear that set-pieces are not a priority, preferring to focus on open play. Despite this, City have been effective from set-pieces, with Marc Guehi scoring from a corner against Bournemouth and another big chance created from a short corner at Palace.
