Is Maresca opting for a man-to-man or zonal press?
Is Maresca opting for a man-to-man or zonal press?
Umir Irfan - Football tactics correspondentSat, August 15, 2026 at 11:03 AM UTC
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Out of possession is where we have seen the biggest changes from Enzo Maresca compared to his time at Stamford Bridge.
At Chelsea, Maresca mainly used a man-to-man press high up the pitch. In pre-season we have seen Manchester City defend high up the pitch but in a more zonal fashion - something they did last season under Pep Guardiola.
City's starting shape here has looked like a 4-2-4, before players spring to press certain opponents when the moment is right.
Reflecting on how the game has changed in pre-season, Maresca said: "Usually the team that was defending found the solution by going man-to-man.
"Now the teams that try to build up are trying to find solutions against man-to-man. I don't know when but there is going to be a bit of change."
And his change in defensive approach appears to be trying to ensure his side are ready for teams who are preparing to play against man-to-man presses more often.
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In pre-season, this has been the weakest part of City's system with players, often in midfield or at full-back, having to cover large distances, leaving gaps in their defensive shape.
Like with any defensive approach that involves an element of pressing, this improves with time, as players better understand the press, as well as when physical condition improves.
But this something Guardiola tweaked often last season, struggling to land on something he was completely happy with.
There is benefit in Maresca's hire following Guardiola because it provides a sense of familiarity, particularly in terms of the team's identity and their principles.
Maresca's system is its own, but interestingly there are references to City's last decade as the club look to begin a new chapter.
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Source: “AOL Sports”
