Enzo Maresca began his Manchester City reign with a 2–1 comeback against Bournemouth in the 2026–27 Premier League opening round.
Manchester City hosted Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 23 August 2026. Bournemouth led through Marcus Tavernier, but Marc Guéhi equalised and Joško Gvardiol scored in stoppage time to give City victory.
The match was Maresca’s first in charge of Manchester City after he replaced Pep Guardiola. His tactical choices attracted attention: Guéhi, normally a centre-back, played in central midfield, while Nico O’Reilly operated as the number 10 after spending the previous season at left-back. The starting lineup was Manchester City’s youngest Matchweek 1 team in 17 years.
Rayan Cherki came off the bench and assisted both City goals. The comeback was especially significant because Bournemouth had never previously led at the Etihad. The result also ended Bournemouth’s 18-match unbeaten Premier League run and gave Maresca a winning start despite City trailing with only six minutes remaining.