Manchester City coach Enzo Maresca has endorsed midfielder Elliot Anderson's recent declaration that Man City is the "King of Manchester". This statement, made by Anderson after his 153 million USD transfer to the club, has intensified local rivalries ahead of the upcoming Premier League derby against Manchester United.

Anderson's comment, "Since I've known football in Manchester, Man City has always been the king of the city," appeared to target city rivals Man Utd, who were also linked with him this summer. Statistical data supports this claim: since 2002, the year Anderson was born, Man City has secured 26 major titles, surpassing Man Utd's 24. This disparity becomes even more pronounced over the past 14 years, with Man City claiming eight Premier League championships compared to Man Utd's one title.

Elliot Anderson debuted for Man City on 23/7. *Photo: Man City*

During a press conference before his inaugural Manchester derby as Man City's head coach, Maresca was asked about Anderson's comments. "I think what Man City has achieved is extraordinary. It's completely normal for Elliot to say that," Maresca responded. He elaborated, "If you look back at history, the picture would be different. But I believe Elliot made that statement because Man City was the dominant team throughout his formative years."

The Manchester derby is scheduled just days after Man City's 2-0 victory at Porto, secured by an Erling Haaland brace in the first leg of the Champions League qualifying round on 8/9. Maresca expressed particular satisfaction with his players' ability to handle the intense atmosphere both on and off the pitch at the Estadio do Dragao. He emphasized the importance of replicating that resilience at Old Trafford.

"I think the most important thing for the players is to focus on the game," the Italian coach stated. "Similar to the Porto match, Old Trafford is also a challenging stadium with a special atmosphere. It is crucial for the players to concentrate on the game, our tactical plan, how we can win, and make an impression."

Coach Enzo Maresca (far left) shakes hands with Ruben Dias after Man City's 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace in Premier League round two at Selhurst Park, London on 28/8/2026. *Photo: Reuters*

Meanwhile, Man Utd coach Michael Carrick expressed dissatisfaction with the short recovery period after his team's Champions League win against Sabah on the evening of 10/9. In contrast, Man City had an additional two days to prepare for the derby, having defeated Porto away on 8/9.

While former Man City coach Pep Guardiola frequently voiced concerns about the demanding fixture schedule last season, Maresca appeared unfazed when questioned about the schedule. He showed no sympathy for Carrick's perspective, citing similar past experiences.

"The same thing happened to Man City last year. The team played Napoli and then Arsenal just two days later," Maresca explained. "Sometimes football is like that. I have no doubt Man Utd will be ready. The important thing is just to adapt. This happened to us last year, it is happening to them this season, and next season it could be another team's turn."

Maresca possesses extensive experience in major derby matches throughout his playing and coaching career, including the Manchester derby during his time on Guardiola's coaching staff. The Italian coach believes these matches always hold special significance for the club, fans, and coaching staff.

His experience includes fierce rivalries such as Olympiacos - Panathinaikos, Juventus - Torino, and Sevilla - Betis, as well as London derbies while leading Chelsea. Maresca considers Olympiacos - Panathinaikos to have the most heated atmosphere, stating he always enjoys the pressure and uniqueness that such games bring.

Hong Duy compiled.