Omar Marmoush double helps Manchester City begin new era under new coaching staff

Omar Marmoush says goals are giving him confidence as Manchester City prepare for a new era following Pep Guardiola’s departure, after scoring twice in a 3-1 friendly win over Atletico de Madrid.

The Egypt international struck twice in the second half as City came from behind to beat the Spanish side in a pre-season match. Both goals came in the same fashion, with Marmoush converting crosses from Antoine Semenyo in the 57th and 59th minutes.

Jorge Dominguez, aged 16, had given Atletico de Madrid the lead shortly before half-time.

Marmoush started the match and was substituted in the 78th minute, when Algeria international Rayan Ait-Nouri came on in his place.

The forward said the goals had been made possible by the work of Semenyo, who supplied both assists.

“I am having a really great time as a striker. Goals give you confidence and if it wasn’t for Antoine Semenyo, these goals wouldn’t have happened. All I had to do was put the ball in the net,” Marmoush told Manchester City’s official website.

The former Manchester City manager Guardiola left the club after 10 years in charge, with the club now preparing for the next phase under a new coaching team.

Marmoush said the squad had begun to understand the new manager’s ideas and tactical demands during their training camp.

“It was really great in the training camp. We are trying to get to know the new tactics and what the coach wants from us. We have started to understand his ideas and we performed really well,” he said.

“We are preparing for a new era at Manchester City after Pep Guardiola left, having stayed with the team for 10 years.”

He added: “This will not be easy, but we will do our best and continue to move forward after returning to England.”

Marmoush only returned to training with City a few days ago after taking a break following his involvement with Egypt at the World Cup. He had previously appeared as a substitute in City’s friendly against the Korean League Stars.

The 2026 summer has also been a significant one away from football for the 27-year-old, who said he married during his holiday.

“The summer was great for me. I got married during the holiday and these were the best days of my life. Now I am back with my team,” he said.

City’s pre-season preparations have included time in South Korea, where Marmoush praised the welcome from supporters and the local culture.

“The culture here in South Korea is great and the fans love us. The food here is very good. I really liked it,” he said.

Manchester City will next play Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday before beginning their new Premier League campaign against Bournemouth on Sunday, 23 August. That match will be played at the Etihad Stadium.