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Maresca's Champions League debut as City face Porto
8 Sep
Summary
- Both teams enter the match with perfect domestic league records.
- City's Nico O'Reilly sidelined with a back issue; Jeremy Doku has a calf injury.
- Porto also faces absences with key players suspended or injured.
Manchester City embarks on its Champions League journey today with a visit to Porto. Both clubs arrive at this European fixture following impeccable starts to their respective domestic league campaigns, fueling a confident atmosphere for the encounter. This match marks the Champions League debut for City's manager, Enzo Maresca.
However, Maresca faces squad challenges for this opening European game. Nico O'Reilly is unavailable due to a back issue, though he is anticipated to return for the upcoming Manchester derby. Jeremy Doku remains sidelined with a calf injury sustained earlier and is a doubt for the weekend fixtures.
Across the pitch, Porto's manager, Francesco Farioli, is also set to manage his first Champions League match. His team will be without three crucial players. Jan Bednarek is suspended following a red card in the previous Europa League season, while Victor Froholdt and Samu are also absent from the squad.
