Maresca describes how childhood and playing career shaped him | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca says his family life as a child instilled in him the work ethic he’s carried throughout his life so far.

Men's Team

Being City manager is the best job in football, says Maresca

Our new boss was born in southern Italy in 1980 as the son of a fisherman.

Speaking in an honest and wide-ranging interview with City Studios during our pre-season tour of Asia, the 46-year-old insists seeing his father commit to long hours of physical labour helped form his values early on.

“I grew up in a family where I saw my dad working every day and used to go to work when it was still dark outside,” he began.

“So, for me personally, that’s why the work ethic is so important to me – that’s why that day by day I repeat every day, that the target at the end is very important, but even more important is the culture that we create and this comes from my family, my dad.

“None of them taught me football but they taught me things more important than football.

“It was sacrifice, but the most important thing for me was that I never saw my dad complain – working during the night – that’s why nobody taught me to be a footballer or how to be a manager.

“The most important thing that taught me was the work ethic, the sacrifice and for me that’s what I think is most important.”

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Men's Team

Maresca reveals his dream five-a-side team

Maresca demonstrated a talent and passion for football early on and moved to AC Milan’s academy as an 11-year-old.

He made his professional debut at West Brom before embarking on a 19-year career that took in the likes of Juventus, Sevilla, Olympiacos, Malaga and Palermo amongst others.

The boss says having so many varied experiences during his playing days also aided his worldview and opened his mind to coaching.

“When you play in four different countries, I played in Italy, Spain, England and Greece, that shapes you in all aspects,” he said.

“As a human being, because you need to learn different languages, you need to adapt to different food, different cultures.

“You need to grow. As a player you shape your view. I have no doubt that the way I try to manage players and teams today is because of that general experience.”

Men's Team

How can I watch the Community Shield on TV?

Premier League 2026/27 home tickets now on sale

General admission tickets for Manchester City’s home 2026/27 Premier League fixtures are now on sale to Premium, Matchday and Junior Members.

Season Ticket Members, meanwhile, are now also able to purchase additional tickets for selected games.

Premier League match-by-match ticket prices for junior and adult Matchday Members have been retained at the same rate for a third consecutive season.

It promises to be another thrilling campaign for the Blues as we enter a new era under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, who takes over from Pep Guardiola in the hotseat.

Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium for our Premier League fixtures now!

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