Enzo Fernandez, Manchester City's most expensive debutant, played his first match for the club today in a 1-0 home victory against Coventry. The British record signing, who joined for £125m, was unexpectedly called into the starting line-up after Nico O’Reilly sustained a back problem during the warm-up.
Fernandez, operating as a No 8, formed half of the Premier League's costliest midfield duo alongside Elliot Anderson. He was involved in the build-up to Erling Haaland's winning goal, feeding Antoine Semenyo who then crossed for Haaland's header.
Manager Enzo Maresca described Fernandez's introduction as "an ideal start," noting their previous working relationship at Chelsea. Maresca also highlighted the crucial performance of Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made three significant saves for City.
Despite the win, Maresca acknowledged that City's attack did not fully click, partly attributing it to fellow deadline-day signing Iliman Ndiaye's need to adapt. Coventry manager Frank Lampard felt his team deserved a draw, having created several chances against the Premier League leaders.