Man City: Maresca optimistic on O’Reilly and Doku ahead of derby

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca expressed optimism regarding Nico O’Reilly's availability for the Manchester derby, though Jeremy Doku's participation remains uncertain.

The team is set to begin their Champions League campaign at Porto on Tuesday, followed by a short trip to Old Trafford on Sunday for their first Manchester derby under Maresca's charge.

City secured their third consecutive Premier League victory last Saturday with a narrow 1-0 win against newly promoted Coventry City at home.

O’Reilly was absent from that match due to an injury sustained during the warm-up. Winger Doku has been sidelined since the Community Shield defeat to Arsenal, nursing a calf issue.

Maresca hopeful for City duo

Both players will miss the upcoming match at the Estadio do Dragao. However, Maresca indicated that at least one of them is expected to be fit for the derby.

During a pre-match press conference, when questioned about their availability for the clash against Michael Carrick's side, Maresca stated: "Nico, probably yes. Jeremy, we're not sure yet, we need to wait.

"Jeremy sustained his injury in the Community Shield, which was three weeks ago.

"However, he is back. I don't know if he'll be available for the weekend, but he's slowly returning."

Maresca faces the challenging task of succeeding Pep Guardiola.

This week will offer insights into City's development under the former Chelsea boss following their disappointing Community Shield performance, as they prepare for two demanding away fixtures across different competitions.

Despite these challenges, right-back Matheus Nunes has been impressed by Maresca's immediate impact.

"He has brought so much energy; there's a new sense of vitality around," Nunes commented. "He possesses excellent energy and sets a high standard."

When asked to compare Maresca with Guardiola, Nunes replied: "I was with Pep for three seasons, and with Enzo for just a couple of months.

"Perhaps in a few months, I'll be able to answer that question. They are both very passionate, so I see more similarities than differences."