Man City vs Bournemouth: Maresca wins first Premier League game of post-Guardiola era despite Haaland no-show
Enzo Maresca saw his Manchester City side overcome huge adversity to steal all three points against Bournemouth
Erling Haaland drew blanks, but Enzo Maresca still came out on top in Manchester City’s first Premier League game in the post-Guardiola era.
Despite the new-look Haaland failing to get on the scoresheet after his big chop, Manchester City found goals from unlikely sources as Marc Guehi and Josko Gvardiol struck late in the game to overturn Marcus Tavernier’s early opener and hand the Cityzens a vital 2-1 win.
Man City vs Bournemouth: As it happened
City started strongly, with Rico Lewis denied by Đorđe Petrović after a clever Phil Foden flick, while Erling Haaland was unable to convert Nico O’Reilly’s dangerous cross.
However, Bournemouth grew into the contest and took a surprise lead when Marcus Tavernier finished Evanilson’s first-time delivery after Rayan had tested Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Despite dominating possession, City struggled to create clear chances before half-time, with Bournemouth looking more threatening. Justin Kluivert and Tavernier both came close to extending the visitors’ advantage.
City improved after the restart, but Haaland continued to struggle in front of goal. Marc Guéhi then missed a glorious chance before redeeming himself by heading Bournemouth level with six minutes remaining.
The hosts refused to settle for a draw, and Gvardiol completed a stunning comeback in stoppage time, keeping his composure after a VAR check to score the winner.
The victory extended City’s winning run against Bournemouth at the Etihad to 10 league games, while ending the Cherries’ 18-match unbeaten league streak. Although the performance was far from convincing, Maresca secured a winning start.