Maresca calm on transfers as City face Bournemouth opener

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has dismissed concerns over the club's transfer activity, insisting there is clear direction ahead of the 1 September deadline.

"No, I'm not worried or concerned," Maresca said. "Since day one we've known exactly what we need and we are working together with the Sporting Director and the club."

City have brought in Elliot Anderson, Jeremy Monga and goalkeepers Gerónimo Rulli and Pierce Charles this summer, while John Stones, Bernardo Silva, Manuel Akanji, Nathan Aké, James Trafford, Rodri and Tijjani Reijnders have all departed.

Maresca acknowledged the scale of the squad overhaul but rejected suggestions it would undermine the team's competitiveness. "How many years were Rodri here? John was here? Ake was here? Bernardo was here? It's a big change but it's not to say we won't be ready to compete," he said.

On transfer numbers, Maresca was measured: "We don't have minimum or maximum number. We know exactly what we need and how many we need and then we will see."

The Italian coach takes charge of his first Premier League game as City manager on Sunday when Bournemouth visit the Etihad, kick-off 14:00 (UK). City head into the fixture having lost 3-0 to Arsenal in the Community Shield, with four starters making their first appearances of the season at Cardiff's Principality Stadium.

"The Arsenal game we wanted to win, we didn't win," Maresca said. "Now our focus has to be about Bournemouth, the Premier League and all the games we have ahead. No doubt we will win games."