Enzo Fernandez called up for surprise Man City debut after Nico O'Reilly injured in warm-up | OneFootball

England international pulled up before kick-off at the Etihad

Enzo Fernandez has been drafted in for his Manchester City debut after Nico O’Reilly picked up an injury ahead of their home game against Coventry City.

O’Reilly was due to start for Enzo Maresca’s side as they look to continue their perfect start to the season before he pulled up in the warm-ups with a suspected lower back injury.

Fernandez, who joined City from Chelsea on Deadline Day for a British record transfer fee of £125million, was initially named on the bench for the visit of Frank Lampard’s Coventry.

He will now, though, make his full debut for the club alongside fellow summer signing Elliot Anderson.

On signing for City, Fernandez praised the influence of Maresca, after the pair worked together at Chelsea.

Surprise: Enzo Fernandez makes an unexpected debut at the Etihad

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“He is a top manager, honestly,” Fernández said of Maresca.

“I had him at my previous club. They were incredible moments. I learned so much with him.

“He’s very similar to Latin people, very passionate. So, for me, it’s a pleasure to work with him.

“I’m also grateful because he was very important in bringing me here. So it’s a huge pleasure for me to work alongside him and enjoy it.

“To be honest, we were both very eager for it to happen, because it wasn’t easy for me to be here today.

“But I know he also made a big effort, speaking to the club, and I’m grateful that he did that.

“It was a long few days, but in the end I’m here and I’m very happy to be joining this club.”