Maresca Reflects on Team’s Best Performance in Surprising Choice
When asked to name his team’s best performance of the season so far, Enzo Maresca delivered a somewhat unexpected answer during his latest press conference. Instead of picking a win, he singled out the opening day defeat to Manchester City as their standout display.
It’s a classic manager move to highlight a loss when making a case for their team’s progression, and Maresca is no exception. Facing a daunting challenge against the Premier League champions on the first day of the season, Maresca’s new-look side put up a good fight despite being seen as underdogs from the start.
“I consider the City game our best game this season for many reasons,” Maresca shared. “First of all, because I know City very well, and secondly, I think we played a good game. We didn’t concede many chances against a team that typically creates and scores plenty.”
Maresca further elaborated on how his side also managed to create some dangerous opportunities of their own: “We had many chances to score before and after City’s goal. Unfortunately, we didn’t convert. But I still see that as our best performance this season.”
Maresca’s Frustrations Despite Good Form
Maresca’s admiration for that City performance gives insight into his frustrations with the team despite recent positive results. He specifically pointed out his satisfaction with how few chances they allowed against City, indicating that conceding chances has been a persistent issue since then. While the team has made progress and earned good results in the weeks following, Maresca’s comments reveal that tightening up defensively is still very much a focus moving forward.
Managers often use these reflections to remind their squads—and the fans—that even in defeat, strong performances can provide a foundation to build upon. Maresca’s comments seem to suggest exactly that, as he seeks further improvements in defensive resilience game by game.
