Enzo Maresca was once considered the suitable successor to Pep Guardiola thanks to his appearance, personality and understanding of the philosophy of his predecessor. However, Manchester City's performance in the English Super Cup match is raising big questions about the ability to continue that legacy.
Although Community Shield is not an absolute measure for the whole season, Man City showed a worrying face in the 0-3 defeat to Arsenal. Maresca's team controlled the ball but lacked ideas, played disjointedly and almost did not create significant pressure on the opponent's goal.
Arsenal was superior in both discipline and sharpness. Meanwhile, Man City's attack with Jeremy Doku and Antoine Semenyo was constantly deadlocked. Gianluigi Donnarumma also had a forgettable match day when he made mistakes in both of the first 2 goals conceded.
Notably, Jack Grealish - a player who was once considered an outsider at Man City - is one of the rare bright spots after being brought on in the second half. This is the first time he has worn the Man City shirt in 15 months.
This defeat is not enough to conclude Maresca's future. However, it exposes the problems that the new Man City captain needs to quickly solve. Replacing a legendary coach like Guardiola already creates great pressure, and a start without vitality further makes Maresca subject to scrutiny.
Arne Slot once experienced similar pressure when succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. The successful first season helped him receive support, but when his playing style began to disappoint, fans' sympathy also declined. Maresca may face a similar trajectory if he does not soon make his own mark.
Of course, Man City still has reasons to defend themselves. Elliot Anderson has only had two training sessions with the team after returning from the 2026 World Cup, while Haaland has not yet reached his best physical condition. But that is not enough to explain the lackluster performance against Arsenal.
It is worth mentioning that Maresca himself once emphasized the importance of this match. However, on the field, Man City players could not show the corresponding spirit. Anderson and Mateo Kovacic were overwhelmed by Arsenal in midfield, causing The Citizens to almost lose control of the match.
Reactions from the stands further show that pressure is increasing. Some Man City fans have expressed disappointment with Maresca, while Arsenal fans continuously mocked him from the first half. If such performances continue, the question about Maresca's ability to take on Guardiola's legacy will become increasingly large.
Maresca's background is still very impressive. He once helped Leicester City get promoted and brought Chelsea to the top of the FIFA Club World Cup. But his style did not receive absolute support at Stamford Bridge, especially when The Blues were criticized for their slow and unflexible playing style.
Guardiola also emphasizes tactical discipline, but he always creates space for breakthrough moments. Maresca's Man City has not shown that. They had no shots on target until the 74th minute and were completely helpless against Arsenal.
Community Shield is only the first match, but it has sounded an alarm bell. Maresca still has a lot of time to adjust, but if Man City continues to show a lack of vitality like at Cardiff, pressure on his successor Guardiola will increase very quickly.
