Maresca: Sunderland will be toughest test of the season

Enzo Maresca has warned that Sunday's home fixture against Sunderland represents the sternest challenge Manchester City have faced this season, despite the visitors being a newly promoted side.

Sunderland arrive at the Etihad on the back of three 1-0 wins in all competitions, a 1-1 draw at Brentford, and a performance against Premier League champions Arsenal that drew widespread praise. The match will also be Régis Le Bris' 100th game in charge of the club.

"I watched the game live against Arsenal, and then I watched again the last two days. If you watch the game, you can realize how strong they are. I think personally that they didn't deserve to lose that game," said Maresca.

"My feeling is, after watching them, is that on Sunday it will be the toughest game since the start of the season."

Maresca, who is looking to guide City to a seventh consecutive win under his management, expressed clear respect for the work Le Bris has built since joining Sunderland in 2024.

"They are very strong, very well coached from their manager. You can see what they want to do on the ball and off the ball. The amount of duels that they win every game," the Italian added.

"If you're just thinking about the team got promoted and then [qualified for] Europe, you are surprised — but if you watch them, you are not surprised because you realize how good they are."

On the injury front, Maresca indicated that winger Jérémy Doku could return for the fixture. "Probably he can be available for Sunderland," he said.

Sunderland finished seventh last season, securing Europa League football in what was widely regarded as a surprise campaign. City's previous meeting with the Wearsiders ended in a 3-0 victory, with goals from Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and Phil Foden. Sunday's kick-off at the Etihad Stadium is scheduled for 14:00 UK time.