Maresca has his own interpretation of freedom.
Speaking in September, he explained that allowing players to roam wherever they please does not represent freedom but creates disorder.
In his system, players are free to make their own choices once they receive the ball in their designated areas.
When in possession, Manchester City’s starting lineup takes up clearly defined zones within either a 3-2-5 or 3-1-3-3 formation.
Although this structure may make their strategy easier for opponents to anticipate, it ensures every City player understands their responsibilities, expected location and likely movement.
Following City’s victory over Coventry, Maresca noted that Iliman Ndiaye had completed very little training and would occasionally move into areas that did not fit the team’s intended style.
One benefit of such a disciplined approach is that opponents can understand what is about to happen yet still struggle to prevent it because the moves are carried out so quickly.
It also reduces the need for improvised decisions when breaking down a defence, as the manager provides established solutions that are reinforced through repeated practice throughout the season.
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