Manchester City have begun life after Pep Guardiola with a dramatic 2–1 comeback victory over Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium, giving new manager Enzo Maresca a winning start to his Premier League reign.

The result was far from straightforward. City trailed for more than 80 minutes after Marcus Tavernier put Bournemouth ahead in the first half. But two late goals transformed the match and gave the new-look City side three valuable points.

Late drama at the Etihad

City struggled to find their rhythm for much of the game, highlighting just how much work Maresca still has ahead of him. Bournemouth defended confidently and looked capable of producing a major upset.

However, City’s pressure eventually paid off.

Marc Guéhi equalised in the 84th minute with a header from a Rayan Cherki corner. Then, deep into stoppage time, Josko Gvardiol completed the comeback from close range after another important contribution from Cherki. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR confirmed it.

For Maresca, it was an emotional first Premier League victory as City’s manager. The Italian has inherited the enormous challenge of succeeding Guardiola, who spent a decade building one of the most dominant teams in English football.

Cherki makes his case

One of the biggest positives from the match was Rayan Cherki.

The French midfielder came off the bench and immediately influenced the game, providing the corner for Guéhi’s equaliser before helping create Gvardiol’s dramatic winner.

Maresca has already suggested that Cherki’s performance could put him in contention for a starting position in City’s next matches.

Erling Haaland, meanwhile, made his 200th appearance for Manchester City but endured a difficult afternoon in front of goal. The striker will be expected to play a central role as City attempt to challenge for major honours again.

Enzo Fernández transfer becomes the big story

Away from the pitch, Manchester City’s biggest developing story is their reported pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández.

Reports on Monday indicate that City are prepared to meet Chelsea’s reported £120 million asking price as Maresca looks to strengthen his midfield. Fernández is believed to be one of City’s major targets as the club rebuilds following significant changes in midfield.

A move would also reunite Fernández with Maresca, who previously worked with him at Chelsea. However, no completed transfer has been officially announced, so City supporters will have to wait before treating the deal as done.

A new Manchester City is taking shape

The Bournemouth victory was not a perfect performance, but it demonstrated something important: resilience.

Maresca himself has described City as a “work in progress,” and that may be the most accurate description of the club right now. The team is adapting to a new manager, new tactical ideas and significant squad changes.

The next few weeks could therefore be crucial. If City can improve their performances while adding further quality to the midfield, they could quickly become serious Premier League contenders.

For now, though, Maresca has something every new manager needs: a victory.

And after Guardiola’s departure, Manchester City have officially entered a new era.