Maresca backs Donnarumma after error and urges defensive focus at Man City
Enzo Maresca has defended his goalkeeper despite a mistake against RB Leipzig and called for more concentration from his Manchester City side.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Ank kumar
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has offered his full support to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma following the 3-2 Champions League win over RB Leipzig. Despite a costly error that allowed a goal at the near post, the coach confirmed he has no intention of changing his number one.
It is not a concern, although it is indeed a mistake. We recognize it, and Gigio understands it too. A few minutes before the goal he conceded, he made a save that no other goalkeeper in the world would have made. Enzo Maresca
Maresca was critical of his team's defensive performance, describing the goals conceded as "silly" mistakes that could have been avoided. He emphasized that the team is still in a growth phase, having worked together for only four months, and expressed optimism for the future.
Erling Haaland proved decisive once again, netting the winner in the 78th minute. The goal marked his 176th for the club, drawing him level with Eric Brook as the second-highest scorer in City's history.
The team now shifts focus to domestic fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Fulham before returning to European competition to host Napoli.