Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has praised Enzo Maresca for the impact he has made at Manchester City, admitting his side face a difficult challenge against one of the Premier Leagues strongest teams. Villa host City on Saturday, with Emerys side looking to close the gap on their opponents following a difficult start to the campaign.The Spaniard believes Marescas understanding of Citys culture and playing style has been crucial to their impressive form, having previously worked under Pep Guardiola.Speaking ahead of Saturdays fixture, Emery singled out Maresca as the driving force behind Citys performances.I think the key there is the coach. Enzo Maresca is doing a fantastic job, Emery said.He worked with Guardiola, he worked in Leicester, successful, in Chelsea, successful.And now he knows Manchester City players the culture, the club. And he is following the same way they did before with Guardiola. I think this is the key.They are favourite with Arsenal. The last year Manchester City and Arsenal they are so strong, so competitive in everything. The identity is clear. So we dream sometimes to be close to them.Aston Villa face Manzambi fitness concern ahead of City clashVilla could be without summer signing Johan Manzambi for Saturdays match, with the midfielder facing a late fitness test.The in-form youngster has impressed since arriving at Villa Park, but his involvement against City remains uncertain.Emery also confirmed that Amadou Onana, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Matteo Ruggeri will miss the fixture.Some players clearly out like Amadou Onana, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Matteo Ruggeri, he explained.Other players we will see how they are after the match we played on Wednesday and so on.They were with some pain, but I cant tell you now until after the training session this afternoon. Topics Aston Villa F.C. Manchester City F.C. Unai Emery If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Fantasy Premier League: Dump Semenyo and Saka ahead of Gameweek Eight Jon Fisher 23rd October, 2026 Fantasy Premier League: Foden heads list of five players you should target for Gameweek Eight Jon Fisher 23rd October, 2026 Aston Villa v Manchester City: Preview, expected line-ups, stats and where to watch Jon Fisher 23rd October, 2026 Haaland is 100% fit, says Manchester City boss Maresca, who also defends Cherki showboating Jon Fisher 22nd October, 2026 Aston Villa 3-1 Viking: Report, result and goals as Villans ease to another win in Europe Mitch Fretton 21st October, 2026 LIVE Aston Villa v Viking: Commentary, updates, goals and stats Jon Fisher 21st October, 2026
