Dramatic comeback earns Enzo Maresca first Premier League win as Man City manager
Josko Gvardiol grabbed a stoppage-time winner at the Etihad Stadium after Marc Guehi had cancelled out Marcus Tavernier’s first-half strike with an 84th-minute header.
Mike Jones23 August 2026 17:02
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The Premier League action continues on Super Sunday with Newcastle hosting Liverpool.
Before the game there were some emotional tributes paid to Kevin Keegan.
Anthony Elanga then fired the hosts into the lead and Liverpool are trying to respond.
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Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:50
Arsenal’s victory over Coventry on Friday night proved that the champions will be the favourites to win the title again this year.
Man City will want to challenge them and it is results like these that will be crucial to that effort.
They were poor for the most part but managed to get over the line.
That means they join seven other teams on three points after the opening matchday.
A good start for Enzo Maresca.
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:41
Celebrations begin for Man City
Manchester City begin their Premier League campaign with a late win and three points.
The performance wasn’t great but the result is all that matters for Enzo Maresca.
(Getty)
Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol celebrates the winning goal, which was given by VAR (Reuters)
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:23
Josko Gvardiol spoke to Sky Sports after Man City’s win.
He said: “To be fair, I was quite sure I was onside, but it’s difficult, in that moment you are just waiting to see the referee’s reaction. I am glad in the end it’s a goal.
“Every game is important, especially here in England. I would say the most important thing is that we won today.
“There is another game, Crystal Palace away, which is going to be difficult as well.”
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:18
Here are come thoughts from Man City’s match winner, Josko Gvardiol.
He said: “Everyone is proud in the moment, it’s the opening game of the season and we know how important it is, especially with all the changes we’ve had in the previous weeks.
“We need to enjoy this, we deserve it and I’m happy with the three points.”
(Getty)
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:14
Bournemouth had been unbeaten since January but that run of 18 games without defeat is over.
The Cherries were stubborn and composed but a couple of momentary lapses has cost them late in the game.
Marco Rose was so close to a perfect start as Bournemouth boss but it was Enzo Maresca who took the spoils.
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:10
Here’s Paul Robinson, former England goalkeeper, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live.
He said: “It’s a brilliant goal and it’s that man Rayan Cherki, you can only question why he has not started this game.
“He pokes it through the gap in the Bournemouth defence and Josko Gvardiol’s first touch is equally as good. Then in one swift move he swivels and puts it in the corner.
“It looks like Man City have got away with one.”
(Reuters)
Mike Jones23 August 2026 16:01
FULL-TIME! Man City 2-1 Bournemouth
The full-time whistle goes and Manchester City have a hard-fought win in their first game under Enzo Maresca!
The Italian might not be too happy with the performance overall but he’ll love what he saw in terms of City’s attitude, and he can take encouragement from some aspects of the performance.
As for Marco Rose, it’s so disappointing to lose in that manner, but he will also take a lot of encouragement from what he saw this afternoon.
Chris Wilson23 August 2026 15:56
Bournemouth win a free-kick but the flag goes up for offside, and that should be that!
Chris Wilson23 August 2026 15:55