After nearly six months away, the Premier League 2 season kicks off this weekend, as a new look Manchester City U23 host Derby County at the City Football Academy.
The game starts a new era for the Blues Elite Development Squad as new manager, Enzo Maresca takes charge of his side for the first time.
The Italian was absent from his side's 3-0 win over Mansfield in the EFL Trophy last week after spending the last two weeks in self isolated quarantine.
Last Time
It was the Rams who took the spoils in the last meeting between these two as they ran out 2-0 winners in last year's league campaign.
Two second half goals from Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Morgan Whittaker gave them an impressive win over the 10-man Blues.
Head-to-Head
Despite the result the last time these two sides met, it is in fact the Blues that have dominated this fixture in recent years. Prior to last September's result, City ran out winners in the last five meetings between the two, scoring an impressive 16 goals in the process.
One-to-Watch
One man who could prove to be the star in Saturday's season opener is City forward, Liam Delap. The 17-year-old shone in the Blues Under-18 side last campaign, and also proved himself at a first team level, after putting in a man-of-the-match performance in his side's 3-0 win over Mansfield, scoring two goals and picking up an assist.
Marseca ready to Get Going
Ahead of his first game in charge, Blues' boss, Marseca expressed his excitement in an interview with the club's website. He said:
“I am very happy about the new role. Especially because I have joined a big club, a big family, I am very proud that they have decided to bring me into the family and for personally it’s a very good moment and time. I have the chance to learn new things and to try to make a very good season with the team."
Match Details
Manchester City U23 vs Derby County U23
Date: 12/09/2020
Kick-off: 13:00 (GMT)
Stadium: City Football Academy
Competition: Premier League 2