Two matches into his City career, Enzo Fernandez is already looking like the midfielder Enzo Maresca was desperate to sign. The Argentinian was central to Tuesday's 2-0 win at FC Porto, and his post-match comments made clear the feeling is mutual.
A Composed Start in Portugal
City controlled the opening 45 minutes at the Estádio do Dragão, with Fernandez tidy in possession as the visitors dictated the tempo. Porto keeper Diogo Costa kept the scoreline respectable before the break, producing an inspired display that stopped Maresca's side from putting the game to bed early.
What the half also produced was a flashpoint. Just before the interval, Marc Guehi caught Porto midfielder Gabri Veiga in the head while challenging for a header. The incident sparked the game into life and led to a fracas between the two teams as they headed into the tunnel. Fernandez was seen voicing his concerns in the aftermath.
The Move That Broke Porto
Two minutes after the restart, City found the breakthrough. Rayan Cherki kept the ball in with some clever footwork before finding Fernandez, whose cross was met by Erling Haaland's header in the 47th minute. It capped a tremendous City move and set the tone for the second half.
Fernandez nearly added a goal of his own late on, only for Costa to deny him what would have been his first for the club.
Settling In Fast
The 2-0 result follows an impressive showing against Coventry City, and Fernandez has now made two starts since arriving from Chelsea on deadline day. For a player thrown straight into the deep end, the early signs are encouraging.
"I'm so happy, they welcomed me from the first minute when I walked into the door. Not just brilliant players but they're amazing human beings and they've all been so kind to me."
He added: "The fans have been absolutely brilliant and it is a new step in my career. I'm so excited to get going."
Repaying the Faith
Fernandez knows exactly who pushed for the move. He acknowledged how determined Maresca was to bring him to Manchester City, and he is clear about what he owes the manager.
"I'm so happy that Maresca did all he could to make this move possible. I know him so well from Chelsea. I'm so grateful. I will give 100% in every training session and in every match to repay him."
Two games in, that promise looks more than just talk.