Maresca: Sunderland did not deserve defeat by Arsenal

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca believes Sunderland were unfortunate to lose to Arsenal before the two sides meet in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Italian is preparing his team for the fifth-round fixture against Sunderland, with City currently second in the table on 12 points from four matches. Arsenal lead the standings with the same perfect record.

Maresca also said Jeremy Doku could return for the match.

“It is possible that Jeremy Doku will be back against Sunderland,” he told a news conference.

Sunderland suffered a 2-0 defeat by Arsenal in the previous round, but Maresca felt the scoreline did not reflect the performance.

“Sunderland did not deserve to lose to Arsenal,” he said. “I watched the match twice and I could see the strength they have.”

Maresca also explained his decision to make several changes for Manchester City’s League Cup match against Norwich.

“It was very important for me to make some changes against Norwich in the League Cup,” he said. “I gave a rest to the players who had played two matches in a row against Porto and Manchester United.”

City’s strong start has come with Maresca leading the club during a period of change, and he credited the players for adapting quickly to his methods.

“What is the reason for my good start?” he said. “First of all, it is the players. When you are coaching a new team, the most important thing is to see whether the players understand what the manager wants.”

Maresca was appointed after Pep Guardiola’s 10-year spell in charge, and acknowledged the pressure that came with succeeding him.

“I was convinced that the team had quality and that the club was in good condition,” he said. “I know Manchester City are going through a period of change after 10 years with one manager. There has also been the departure of players such as Rodri, Bernardo Silva, John Stones and Nathan Ake.

“I am confident that we can do a good job.”

Manchester City have won all four of their Premier League matches so far and sit level on points with leaders Arsenal.

Sunderland, who have four points, are 14th in the table. Their defeat by Arsenal last time out leaves them looking to respond when they face City on Sunday.