Enzo Maresca began his Manchester City reign with a 2–1 win over Bournemouth in 2026–27.
Manchester City trailed Bournemouth before scoring twice late in the match at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday 23 August 2026. The comeback gave Maresca a winning start in his first competitive game as City manager.
Maresca replaced Pep Guardiola, who had previously led Manchester City through an exceptionally successful period. The opening-day match therefore attracted attention not only for the result but also for the change in the dugout.
Rayan Cherki made an important contribution from the bench, supplying two assists in the comeback. Marcus Tavernier and Joško Gvardiol scored City’s goals, with Gvardiol’s arriving in the second minute of added time. Bournemouth’s early lead meant the final score was a comeback victory rather than a straightforward home win.