Maresca defends City celebrations and welcomes Guardiola’s expected return

Maresca answered criticism of City’s celebrations after their win at Anfield, as attention also turns to Guardiola’s expected return to the Etihad Stadium. Asked about doubts voiced by analysts and media over the celebrations, the coach defended his team’s reaction: “Why these criticisms? What do you want us to do? We work every day to win matches; that is the only thing we think about and focus our efforts on.”

Maresca also described the joy after the match: “As for the rest, they are just external matters we have to deal with, but we felt immense joy on the pitch, and you cannot imagine the extent of the joy in the dressing room.” At the final whistle, Erling Haaland appeared deeply moved in front of City supporters, including his father, Alf-Inge. Maresca, meanwhile, had shown his happiness by raising his fists. Those scenes prompted questions and criticism in the media.

The match at Anfield was Manchester City’s first appearance since an independent commission ruled against the club over allegations related to a breach of the Premier League’s financial rules. Manchester City appealed the decision. In that context, Rúben Dias backed his coach’s position on the celebrations: “I completely agree with what the coach said; it was a victory at Anfield, and that showed how important it was to us.” On the decision, the Portuguese defender added: “We are very calm and we trust the club.”

Maresca made the comments at a press conference ahead of the match against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled for Wednesday in the Champions League. That game is set to be Manchester City’s first at their stadium since the commission’s decision.

Guardiola is expected to be at the Etihad Stadium to watch the match. He had led the team for 10 years, won 20 titles, and left at the end of last season. Maresca welcomed his return: “This place was like his home for 10 years, thanks to what he achieved there. It is something that brings joy to everyone, as well as to the supporters.” Guardiola had also voiced support for Manchester City and its supporters after the decision, writing: “I want every Manchester City supporter, everywhere in the world, to know that I am here, and that my support is stronger than ever.” He concluded: “Let me be clear: we will overcome this challenge together.”