Maresca says Man City player did the right thing turning down Arsenal

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·11 August 2026

Maresca says Man City player did the right thing turning down Arsenal

Enzo Maresca has discussed Jeremy Monga’s decision to move to Manchester City after the teenager chose them over Arsenal, who had initially been the closest club to securing his services.

Monga is regarded as one of the best talents in his age group in England and had already become a first-team player at Leicester City as they were relegated from the English Championship. His performances had attracted attention from several clubs, with Arsenal quickly moving to try to bring him into their squad.

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Monga chooses Manchester City

Arsenal acted quickly and reached an agreement on personal terms with Monga, allowing them to complete the move. However, they were unable to reach an agreement with Leicester City over his transfer, leaving the door open for Manchester City to secure his services.

Manchester City were willing to pay more for the attacker than Arsenal believed he was worth, and that ultimately influenced the outcome. Monga has now joined the club and competes under Maresca at the Etihad, with the manager believing the teenager made the correct decision by choosing City over the Premier League champions.

Maresca believes City’s development over the past decade has made the club an attractive destination for young players. He also feels that the opportunities available to emerging talents played an important role in Monga’s decision to move to Manchester.

Maresca praises Monga’s decision

Speaking as quoted by the Metro, Maresca said: ‘What the club and this organisation have 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.’

Maresca’s comments underline his belief that City’s recent development has created a strong environment for young players. The manager clearly considers the club’s progress over the last 10 to 15 years an important reason for emerging talents to choose City.

For Monga, the move represents an opportunity to continue his development after already making an impression at Leicester. Arsenal had been unable to agree a transfer with Leicester, while City were prepared to meet the club’s demands. Maresca now believes the teenager made the right choice by joining his current club.

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