Pep Guardiola praised Manchester City‘s resilience as the Citizens began their Premier League title defence with a 2-0 victory over Chelsea on Sunday. Goals from Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic ensured a winning start, despite a disrupted pre-season for Man City.
City were without key players Rodri, Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden, who were rested after their Euro 2024 exploits. Despite this, Guardiola’s side dominated Chelsea, a team they failed to beat in the league last season.
“I really didn’t expect it,” Guardiola said. “We had two or three days to prepare, but our commitment solved this lack of preparation. I feel privileged to work with such an incredible group of players.”
Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, endured a tough first match in charge. City’s dominance, despite their incomplete squad, highlighted the challenges Maresca faces as he tries to mould a functioning team from Chelsea’s massive squad of over 50 players, including those on loan.
City’s summer signings made an impact, with Savinho making his debut before being replaced by Phil Foden at half-time due to a knock. Kovacic, in for the rested Rodri, shone with a composed display and a goal, easing concerns over Rodri’s absence.
Chelsea, who spent £185 million on 11 new signings this summer, struggled to gel as a unit. Established stars like Raheem Sterling were left out, while summer acquisitions Pedro Neto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Marc Guiu, and Renato Veiga made their debuts in the second half. Neto, Chelsea’s £54 million signing from Wolves, stood out, sparking a late push for an equalizer, but City maintained control.
Despite the disjointed performance, Chelsea’s second-half spirit offers Maresca a foundation to build on as he looks to integrate his new squad and find a winning formula.
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