‘Maresca cut a composed and positive figure’published at 15:24 BST
15:24 BST
Liverpool v Man City (Sun, 1630 BST)
Dan Roan
BBC sports editor
This was an accomplished performance by Enzo Maresca, who, notably, was accompanied by City’s senior communications official at a packed news conference at City’s training complex.
Unlike some other Premier League clubs who say they will not answer questions about the cheating scandal, Maresca faced a fifteen minute-long barrage, with all but one of the inquiries focused on the controversy.
If Maresca is worried by the prospect of punishment, or the hostility that lies in wait at Anfield on Sunday, he did not show it, cutting a composed and positive figure throughout. And although he would not be drawn on whether he had read the commission’s findings, and also avoided confirming whether he would stay at the Etihad regardless of the punishment City face, he seemed well prepared. Sticking to the script, he repeatedly spoke about his trust in City’s hierarchy, and referred to the “noise” surrounding the club, often returning to the football that he insists is his focus.
One reporter suggested that the club’s chief executive or chairman should be fielding questions, rather than the manager. There was no sense that Maresca was frustrated about having to address the issue, but the scrutiny is set to continue.