Maresca: Shelki’s Performance Perfect; Grealish’s Future Uncertain

2026-08-30

In the second round of the Premier League, Manchester City secured a 4-1 away victory against Crystal Palace. After the match, City manager Maresca attended a press conference to respond to media questions.

Enzo, how do you view this match? Particularly the overall performance of the team after such a convincing 4-1 win and the key players’ contributions.

I thought the team's overall performance was exceptional. We struggled a bit in the first five to ten minutes with our pressing strategy, but the adjustments we made allowed us to gradually take control of the game. We scored four goals and might have had more, while restricting our opponents to very few chances.

It’s well known that Shelki scored twice tonight. You didn’t start him in the last match, but he was in the lineup this time; he must be very pleased.

Yes, he’s definitely happy. But I think his performance was comprehensive, not just because of those two goals, but also due to his positive movement off the ball. He participated in the pressing and took on defensive responsibilities when the opposition had the ball. He truly performed perfectly.

What’s it like working with Layan (Shelki)? He seems a bit hard to handle and somewhat unconventional. Is he the type of player that's difficult to manage, or do you enjoy his style?

Firstly, his love for football makes it easier to work with him. Secondly, Layan is just Layan; we know he is outstanding and possesses excellent skills. Currently, he is contributing to the team statistically, including assists and goals. I believe his contributions will continue.

Since you took over, the team has shown not only talent but also resilience. Starting the season with consecutive wins and playing so well...

Indeed. I particularly admire their spirit of sacrifice and desire to fight without the ball. If we can maintain our advantage in intensity and motivation against different opponents, I believe that with our quality, we will achieve great things. I must emphasize that our play with the ball is excellent, but our performance without it is equally important.

Last week, you had Marc Guehi playing in midfield, and tonight he returned to the defense. He did significant work on the left side, and his performance was impressive tonight. Do you think he can be one of the captains? Even if not, his leadership is vital.

As you said, his performance has been impressive. Last week, he played as a midfielder against Bournemouth, and tonight he returned to defense. This is exactly what we need—a player who is open-minded, versatile, and willing to give everything. His performance tonight was outstanding. The transfer window is closing soon, and we will decide on the two captaincy positions afterwards.

Erling Haaland also found his scoring touch tonight with two goals.

We know that as long as we create opportunities, he will score. I believe he had a few chances against Bournemouth that he couldn’t take, but tonight he scored twice and even had the chance to add one or two more. We’re delighted he got on the scoresheet and, of course, with the win.

Grealish wasn’t on the squad list today. Does that indicate he’s on the verge of leaving?

I spoke with Grealish yesterday. We’ll see what happens in the next 48 to 72 hours.

Shelki was quite critical of his first-half performance after the match. What did you say to him during the halftime break?

Nothing, absolutely nothing. Perhaps he didn’t perform to his true level in the first half. However, overall, I was satisfied with his work off the ball. In the second half, he scored two goals, so he must be feeling much happier now.