Depth on Display at Selhurst Park
Last night's 4-1 dismantling of Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park was more than just a statement of intent. It was a glimpse of the squad depth Enzo Maresca can call upon as City made it two wins from two in the Premier League.
The performance followed a similarly convincing display against Bournemouth on the opening day, and the manager will be pleased with how the season has started. But the real work, it seems, is still to be done away from the pitch.
The Bench Tells a Story
Look at the substitutes' bench from last night and you see the shape of things to come. Gerónimo Rulli, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic provided the experience among the replacements, while Vitor Reis was also in the squad and is expected to see more minutes as the campaign progresses.
Then there's Ayyoub Bouaddi. The midfielder has only just arrived at the club and was named among the substitutes, a sign of how quickly he's been integrated. Alongside him were Kaden Braithwaite, Ryan McAidoo and Claudio Echeverri, a mix of youth and promise that suggests the future is already being shaped.
Allan Close, Fernandez Next?
According to Fabrizio Romano, Palmeiras winger Allan is in Manchester to finalise his move to City. The 22-year-old is described as hard-working and technically proficient, and his arrival would add another dimension to the attack.
With Omar Marmoush out on loan at Tottenham, there's a gap in the squad that Allan could fill. But the Brazilian might not be the only new face.
Romano has also reported that City have agreed personal terms with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez. A bid, however, has yet to be submitted to the London club. The combative midfielder would be a significant addition, but there's still work to be done before that one crosses the line.
The transfer window remains open, and the next few days could shape Maresca's options for the rest of the season. If City can nail these final moves, they'll give their manager everything he needs to prosper.