Late turnaround gives Man City victory in Enzo Maresca’s Premier League opener

Manchester City v Bournemouth – Premier League – Etihad Stadiumplaceholder image
Manchester City v Bournemouth – Premier League – Etihad Stadium

Marc Guehi and Josko Gvardiol netted after Marcus Tavernier had given Bournemouth the lead on Sunday.

Manchester City produced a dramatic late fightback to snatch a 2-1 victory over Bournemouth in Enzo Maresca’s first Premier League match as their manager.

Josko Gvardiol grabbed a stoppage-time winner at the Etihad Stadium after Marc Guehi had cancelled out Marcus Tavernier’s first-half strike with an 84th-minute header.

It meant relief for Maresca in his first home match since succeeding Pep Guardiola at the helm.

Gvardiol’s last-gasp effort was initially ruled out for offside but the goal was given after a VAR check, prompting huge celebrations on the touchline.

Until then, Maresca had looked like being outdone by another new manager in Bournemouth’s Marco Rose.

Yet Maresca will feel victory was deserved after his side created a number of chances, with Erling Haaland – sporting a new close-cropped haircut – and Guehi spurning gilt-edged opportunities.

Local news you can trust
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice