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Enzo Maresca Confident Manchester City Are Closing in on PSG Despite Champions League Setback

Enzo Maresca, the manager of Manchester City, remains optimistic after his team suffered a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at the Etihad Stadium in the Champions League. He believes the gap between these European powerhouses is shrinking, especially following a spirited performance from City in the second half.

PSG's Early Surge Puts City Under Pressure

PSG dominated the first half with a ruthless attack, scoring three goals early and leaving City with a tough challenge. Two of those goals came within just two minutes, stunning the Premier League side and forcing them to chase the game.

Despite this, City fought back strongly after halftime. Erling Haaland led the charge with two second-half goals as City mounted heavy pressure on the PSG defense. Over the full match, City fired off 27 shots but couldn't overturn the early deficit.

Maresca Sees Progress Despite Result

The Italian coach focused on City's strong second-half showing rather than the final scoreline. "I think we are there, my feeling is we are close," Maresca told reporters. "It was a strange game because we conceded two goals in two minutes, which caused problems for us. Before the first goal, we hadn't conceded anything. In the second half, we did enough to deserve more."

PSG Coach Luis Enrique Acknowledges Narrow Escape

Maresca revealed that even PSG manager Luis Enrique admitted his team was fortunate to hold on to their win. "Luis told me at the end they have been quite lucky," said Maresca. He also praised PSG's recent form: "In the last two years, they have been the best team in Europe, winning almost all their Champions League games."

Looking Ahead: Domestic Focus for City and PSG

City now turn their attention back to the Premier League as they prepare to host newly promoted Ipswich Town on Saturday. Maresca will be seeking a clinical display to regain momentum before another European test against Greek side AEK.

Meanwhile, PSG will continue their Ligue 1 campaign against Strasbourg, using the match to fine-tune ahead of a high-profile Champions League encounter with Barcelona.

  • Next Matches:
  • Manchester City vs Ipswich Town – Premier League, 17 Oct 2026, 17:00
  • Paris Saint-Germain vs Strasbourg – Ligue 1, 17 Oct 2026, 18:15

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