EPL: Man City beat Bournemouth 2-1 in Maresca’s debut

Enzo Maresca secured a dramatic 2-1 victory in his first Premier League match as Manchester City manager, with late goals from Marc Guehi and Josko Gvardiol overturning Bournemouth's lead. The win marks a winning start to life after Pep Guardiola, who led the club to 20 trophies during his decade-long tenure.

Bournemouth had taken the lead at the Etihad Stadium through Marcus Tavernier's first-half strike. However, City staged a pulsating fightback in the closing minutes. Guehi headed in the equalizer with six minutes remaining, and Gvardiol scored the stoppage-time winner, echoing the late wins that characterized Guardiola's era.

Maresca, who replaced Guardiola, expressed his belief that he can replicate the former manager's trophy haul, provided he is given time to navigate the significant changes at the club. City's performance in their 3-0 Community Shield defeat to Arsenal had raised questions about their ability to compete this season. For much of their league opener, City appeared short of attacking inspiration and defensive cohesion, but they ultimately found a way to secure the result.

The club is experiencing a period of major upheaval, with key players like Rodri, Bernardo Silva, John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Tijjani Reijnders departing, and Savinho expected to join Tottenham. England midfielder Elliot Anderson, Maresca's only major signing so far, had an unimpressive performance before being substituted. Reports suggest City is close to signing Moroccan midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille for a substantial fee, but further recruitment is anticipated to close the gap on rivals like Arsenal.

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