Man City 1897 best start marred by injury concerns

Enzo Maresca insists his squad cannot afford to be distracted by Manchester City's appeal against a ruling that found the club guilty of 114 Premier League financial rule breaches spanning 2009 to 2018. Their response on the field has been exemplary. For the first time in 129 years, City have opened a league season with seven straight wins. The last time they managed that, in 1897-98, they were competing in the second tier. It is a striking feat given the circumstances, with the club's future shrouded in uncertainty during an unprecedented period.

Positives Amid the Uncertainty

Beyond the result, Maresca found several encouraging signs as his smooth transition from club legend Pep Guardiola rolled on. Phil Foden netted his first league goal since December, while teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi delivered a composed display in midfield.

Injury Concerns Cast a Shadow

Yet the win may have come at a heavy price. Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes were both forced off injured, and Erling Haaland and substitute Antoine Semenyo appeared to be limping late in the match. Having used all their substitutions, City had to keep Haaland on despite his knock. The striker, now on eight league goals this season, went straight down the tunnel at full time.