Manchester City have been perfect since their Community Shield defeat to Arsenal, winning seven consecutive matches. That run includes a ten-man victory over Manchester United, a strong showing from youngsters against Norwich, and an eight-goal thriller at home to Sunderland.
Enzo Maresca's start has been made more impressive by a major squad overhaul in the summer. An exodus of stars followed Pep Guardiola's departure, and the transfer window went down to the final hours as City backed the Italian head coach to rebuild the team.
Goalkeepers and defensive additions
Geronimo Rulli returned to the Etihad Stadium from Marseille for £1.7m. With James Trafford's exit to Leeds, Rulli is the clear No.1, though his opportunities will likely be limited to cup competitions. He has played once so far, keeping a clean sheet in the 5-0 thrashing of Norwich. Tougher tests await, including a Carabao Cup tie against Brighton.
Pierce Charles, a 21-year-old goalkeeper, rejoined City from Sheffield Wednesday for £3m, potentially rising to £10m. He was immediately loaned to Championship side Queen's Park Rangers for regular minutes. Charles is a signing for the future, and could eventually push Gianluigi Donnarumma for the starting spot.
Mathys Detourbet, a 19-year-old signed from affiliate club Troyes for £21.5m, was instantly loaned to AS Monaco, where he has already gained minutes off the bench. Because he has not yet played for City, he receives the same grade as Charles.
Midfield and attacking talents
Jeremy Monga, a 17-year-old signed from Leicester City for £10m, potentially rising to £12.5m, was loaned to Swansea. He impressed in pre-season but has not yet played for the Swans, who have started the season well. The signing is seen as a potential bargain.
Allan, signed from Palmeiras for £32m, potentially rising to £34.2m, had a difficult first half against Norwich but scored a superb goal after being moved to the left at half-time. Palmeiras wanted £85m, making this feel like good business.
Iliman Ndiaye, signed from Everton for £60m, potentially rising to £65m, has not yet registered an assist, though he should have had one but for an uncharacteristic Erling Haaland miss. His performance off the bench against United helped turn the game in City's favour.
The big-money signings
Ayyoub Bouaddi, signed from Lille for £85m, impressed on his first Champions League start against Porto, dictating the match. At just 18, he provides a like-for-like replacement in midfield.
Elliot Anderson, signed from Nottingham Forest for £116m, has slotted in brilliantly in the absence of Rodri. His World Cup experience has matured him, and he has been worth every penny so far.
Enzo Fernandez, signed from Chelsea for £125m, has become the missing piece of Maresca's puzzle. He can play across central midfield roles with ease and has added bite to the team. Despite boos following him, he could be the difference between City winning the Premier League and finishing as runners-up.
