Weekend developments set the tone for pre-season
City’s preparations for the new season continued over the weekend, with Enzo Maresca’s first squad decisions, transfer developments and key contract situations dominating the conversation around the Etihad. The Italian has been working behind the scenes to shape his group ahead of the flight to Asia.
Maresca is expected to take a strong Man City squad to Asia despite key absentees. That suggests he wants to use the tour to embed his ideas quickly, even if some familiar faces won’t be on the plane.
Rodri latest
No official update has been given on Rodri’s situation. But the midfielder’s presence or absence on the Asia tour will tell its own story. If he travels, it suggests a resolution is close. If he stays home, expect speculation to ramp up.
Rodri remains central to everything City do. His fitness and availability will be watched closely.
Major developments
Bernardo Silva and John Stones have already left this summer. The spine of last season’s double-winning side — FA Cup and Carabao Cup — has been weakened. Maresca now has to integrate new faces and adjust his system without two of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted performers.
Arsenal are Premier League champions. PSG hold the Champions League trophy. City won two domestic cups but ended the season with questions, not answers, around the 115 charges. No decision has been made on that front. The noise won’t go away.
Maresca needs to build momentum fast. Asia will be his first real test.