By Fatma Younis
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca clashed with a reporter on Friday over his disciplinary record during his brief tenure at Chelsea last season. The exchange occurred ahead of City's Premier League match against third-placed Brighton on Saturday.
Exchange Over Chelsea Discipline
When questioned about the six red cards Chelsea received under his leadership from September to November, Maresca interrupted: "When I was there or when I left?" After the reporter specified his time at the club, Maresca replied: "When I left. You lack information." He added that he did not consider it an issue. Statistics show Chelsea collected six red cards during Maresca's months in charge and four after his departure on New Year's Day.
Squad Fitness Update
Maresca confirmed his entire squad is fit for the Brighton fixture except forward Antoine Semenyo, who is unavailable. The manager notably substituted Marc Guehi and Rayan Cherki at half-time while both were on yellow cards in last week's match against Aston Villa.
Financial Rules Case Looms
Maresca's four months in charge have been overshadowed by the club's 114 guilty verdicts for breaking financial rules, which City are appealing. Asked about on-pitch progress, Maresca said: "We're going in the right direction... we are competing in all competitions and we know that it takes time."
