Enzo Maresca has backed goalkeeper Gianluluigi Donnarumma following a shaky performance in Manchester City's 2-0 Champions League victory over Porto, insisting the Italian's struggles stemmed from poor decision-making by outfield players rather than individual error. The Premier League champions controlled proceedings at the Estadio do Dragao, with Erling Haaland netting a second-half brace, yet Donnarumma's handling of back passes drew scrutiny throughout the contest.
The former AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain stopper faced several uncomfortable moments, most notably when a clearance deflected off Porto defender William Gomes and rolled narrowly wide. Rather than criticize his goalkeeper, Maresca identified systemic issues in City's possession play. "I think a few times tonight it's not a Gigio mistake, it's more for me the wrong decision to go back to Gigio," the manager explained. "Sometimes we go back more than we need. We can go back to the keeper when we don't have another option, but the players need to find the other option." This represents Maresca's measured approach to goalkeeper development—a philosophy tested recently when similar concerns emerged during City's Premier League clash against Coventry City.
Bouaddi Impresses on Champions League Debut
Beyond defensive complications, City showcased their attacking potency and welcomed a breakthrough showing from teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old midfielder, signed from Lille for £85 million, made his competitive debut alongside fellow summer recruit Enzo Fernández (£125 million). Bouaddi's composure in a hostile environment impressed Maresca, who highlighted the youngster's maturity despite early possession errors. "He is different in terms of empathy, in terms of how mature he is," Maresca noted. "Any players after two passes you panic but he is just 18 and is a fantastic player." The Morocco international's ability to recover mentally after mistakes signals the psychological strength that justified City's significant investment during the recent transfer window.
Maresca faces the challenge of integrating multiple high-profile arrivals, including midfielder Elliot Anderson alongside Bouaddi and Fernández. The manager acknowledged the responsibility lies with him to develop these assets effectively. "The club has made a fantastic effort to bring these three players," he said. "Now it's on me to allow them to work in the right way and use them." City's next test arrives against reigning Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain on matchday two, a fixture that will reveal whether the midfield cohesion can reach the level required for European success.
