Manchester City's weaknesses under Enzo Maresca are being exposed

City have conceded 17 goals in eight games and lack defensive solidity in transition, exposing vulnerabilities in Maresca's high defensive line.

Manchester City have suffered three straight defeats for only the second time in top-flight English history, prompting manager Enzo Maresca to use the international break to reassess. While City dominated possession in all three losses—79% against Nottingham Forest, 62% against Brighton, and 63% against Aston Villa—they have failed to keep a clean sheet in nine games, conceding 17 goals in their last eight matches.

Maresca's tactical approach relies on a high defensive line and winning duels to prevent opposition breaks, but City's midfield has proven vulnerable to being outmuscled. Enzo Fernández, signed for £125m from Chelsea, lacks the physical presence typically required in the Premier League, while attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki cannot be relied upon defensively.

With Rodri departed and Elliot Anderson carrying excessive defensive responsibility, City are quickly exposed when possession is lost in dangerous areas or breaks bypass their midfield shield.

Maresca acknowledged the structural issues go beyond tactics, noting that the international break provides an opportunity to reassess rather than immediately chase another result.