Enzo Maresca backs Marc Guehi after costly error as Manchester City prepare for Brighton test

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has backed Marc Guehi following his costly mistake in the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, praising the defender’s response and reaffirming his confidence in the England international.

Guehi lost possession cheaply in the build-up to Nicolas Jackson’s early goal at Villa Park last Saturday, putting City on the back foot in a match they eventually lost. However, Maresca has defended the Abidjan-born centre-back, highlighting his leadership qualities and the way he has responded to the setback.

The City boss spoke ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup Round of 16 clash against Brighton and Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium, where he also confirmed that goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli would start.

Maresca hails Guehi’s response after Villa Park blunder

Despite the error against Villa, Maresca remains pleased with Guehi’s contribution and attitude, describing him as a leader who has acknowledged his mistake.

“I’m completely, especially in this moment, happy with Marc,” said the Italian head coach at the pre-match press conference.

“The way he reacted was fantastic. He is a top guy, a leader, one of the captains and I love Marc to be honest. When they make some mistakes, they recognise. Marc is aware now.”

Guehi has been a regular presence in City’s defence this season, starting and completing every Premier League match for the club. His consistency has strengthened his position in the team, and Maresca believes the defender’s response to the Villa defeat is a positive sign.

The manager also pointed to the workload Guehi has carried for both club and country, suggesting that the defender remains in good condition despite a demanding schedule.

“He’s played all minutes since the start of the season with us and the international team. In the last two weeks he didn’t play Champions League game, he played 45 minutes the other day so he’s completely okay.”

City will now look to put the defeat behind them when they welcome Brighton, with Guehi expected to remain an important figure as the team seeks a response in the cup competition.

Rulli handed starting role against Brighton

Maresca also confirmed that Rulli will start in goal for the Carabao Cup tie, giving the goalkeeper another opportunity to feature after discussing his role before the manager’s arrival at the club.

“Yes [Rulli will play tomorrow],” added the former Chelsea boss.

“He’s good. Before I arrived here, I had a conversation with him, he knows his role and that’s important. Day by day he is helping a lot. When he has played, he was good and tomorrow he will play again.”

The decision offers Rulli a chance to contribute as City pursue progress in the competition, while Maresca praised the goalkeeper’s attitude and the support he provides to the squad.

Five City stars given three days off

Maresca also revealed that five players were granted three days off following the defeat to Aston Villa, with Erling Haaland, Elliot Anderson, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol among those given time away.

The break is intended to allow the players to return refreshed as City prepare for a busy period of fixtures.

“After Villa, we gave five players three days off. Erling [Haaland], Elliot [Anderson], Gigio [Donnarumma], Ruben [Dias] and Josko [Gvardiol]. Go away on holiday. Three days off, go, come back. Full energy.”

City will hope to respond positively against Brighton and secure a place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, with Maresca backing his squad to move on from the Villa disappointment.