Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has backed Jeremy Monga's decision to turn down Arsenal and join the Etihad club from Leicester City, insisting the 17-year-old made the right choice for his career. The teenager, who has already amassed 37 first-team appearances for the Foxes, including seven in the Premier League, was the subject of intense interest from both clubs this summer.
Monga reveals closeness to Arsenal move
Monga admitted that a move to north London was very close to happening, telling the BBC: 'It was very strong because it was very close to me going there, very close.' However, he opted for Manchester City, explaining: 'The main decision was probably the pathway and the club itself. They've been so successful that it was a no-brainer when City call. It's every child's dream to win trophies and be at the top with the best.'
The winger, who cost City £10 million, is eager to prove himself and believes he fits better in blue: 'Once I get the opportunity I just need to show myself, and once I do that, everything will take care of itself. I feel like, to me personally, I see myself at City more. I see myself in blue.'
Maresca's confidence in City's appeal
Maresca, who took over at the Etihad this summer, is confident that City's recent dominance makes them a magnet for young talent. 'Absolutely yes,' he said when asked if City are an extremely attractive proposition for young players. 'What the club and this organisation has made in the last 10-15 years is unbelievable. So it's also for the young generation, for the young players, it's a good reason why to join this club and I think Jeremy did the right choice.'
The Italian coach has been impressed with Monga's early progress, noting: 'Jeremy is doing well. The important thing is they work without pressure. Just enjoy, work hard and then with spending days together, for sure they're going to be better.'
Pathway to first team
Monga has already featured in pre-season, coming off the bench against a K-League XI, and was an unused substitute in City's 3-1 win over Atletico Madrid. With the new season approaching, he will be hoping to break into a star-studded squad, but Maresca's comments suggest patience will be key.
Meanwhile, another new signing, Elliot Anderson, is expected to slot straight into the starting lineup following his £116 million move from Nottingham Forest. Maresca praised Anderson's character, saying: 'When we make a decision it's not just about how they are as a player – which is important – but we also look at the behaviour, the person, the human. Elliot has all these kind of things. He's a fantastic player, a very nice guy, humble, polite and it will be a pleasure for me to work with him.'
City's summer recruitment has been bold, with Monga and Anderson representing significant investments in the club's future. The club's ability to attract top young talent like Monga, even over rivals like Arsenal, underscores their status as a powerhouse in European football.
