Enzo Maresca isn’t wasting any time showing his new Manchester City squad he’s all in, personally reaching out to key players like Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku before even kicking off. Maresca made a point to call Foden after England manager Thomas Tuchel left him out of the World Cup squad, a move that followed a tough, indifferent season for the 26-year-old. The message from the new gaffer is clear: he’s on a mission to get Foden “back in the way we all want.”
Maresca’s Personal Touch and Foden’s Fight Back
Maresca revealed his proactive approach at his first press conference, saying he only initiated calls with two players: Jeremy Doku, to congratulate him on becoming a dad during the World Cup, and Phil Foden, just “to have a chat with him” after the England snub. This wasn’t just a quick check-in. Maresca’s specific intention for Foden is direct: “I just want to help Phil to be the Phil that we all know, but especially the Phil that we all want.” He emphasized it’s for Foden first, so he can “enjoy football and in general,” and second, because Maresca knows “how good is Phil. With Phil in a good shape and good mood, we can win games.”
It’s a restoration project, not an invention. Maresca reminded everyone that Foden was “fantastic” during the Treble-winning season and then won Premier League Player of the Season. Yeah, he’s “struggled a little bit” recently, but Maresca told him directly, “it’s my duty to try to help him back.” This isn’t just a player-coach relationship; Foden is “from this house,” a fan of the club, making Maresca’s commitment even stronger. Talk about a manager stepping up for his guys right out of the gate, especially when a player has been down.
Commitment All Around and What It Means
Foden’s response to this trust has been significant: he just inked a new four-year contract with Manchester City, keeping him at the Etihad until 2030. It’s understood that Maresca’s confidence played a huge role in that deal, especially since Foden called him “brilliant” during the Treble season. That kind of history and mutual respect goes a long way, doesn’t it? It shows a belief in the project and the man leading it.
Doku also got that personal touch and commitment, not just the baby congratulations, but also an agreement for a new long-term contract with City. He’s been on holiday after repping Belgium at the World Cup in North America, coming off his best season in Pep Guardiola’s final term. This approach from Maresca, reaching out personally, understanding the highs and lows, it sets a tone. It tells you he’s not just focused on tactics; he’s investing in the human element, ready to reignite that spark. For City fans, what could be more exciting than seeing Foden get back to his absolute best with Maresca’s backing? The season ahead is going to be a fascinating watch.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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