**Enzo Maresca** had a dramatic Premier League debut as **Manchester City** manager with the club [**defeating Bournemouth 2-1**](https://www.vavel.com/en-us/soccer/2026/08/23/1268784-man-city-vs-bournemouth-live-score-premier-league.html).
City were on the verge of losing the game until **Rayan Cherki** changed things from the bench, providing the assists for **Marc Guehi** and **Josko Gvardiol** to secure the three points.
Guehi’s Midfield Experiment Pays Off
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Maresca’s decision to play **Marc Guehi** as a midfielder was one of the biggest talking points before kick-off.
The former **Crystal Palace** defender played in a midfield three with **Rico Lewis** and **Elliot Anderson**.
Guehi operating out of position slowed City's early rhythm. However, the idea paid off as the 26-year-old scored and played solidly.
Cherki’s Impact Turns the Tide
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Cherki changed the game after being introduced in the 63rd minute. City struggled to break down Bournemouth's deep block until the Frenchman displayed his creativity as he came in.
Six minutes before stoppage time, Guehi nodded home from Cherki's corner to level the score.
In the 93rd minute, the 23-year-old found Gvardiol in the penalty area with a through ball and the Croatian slotted it home with his right foot.
**Defensive Failure and Wasteful Control**
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**Marcus Tavernier** gave Bournemouth the lead in the 26th minute after finishing Evanilson's cross. The goal exposed City's defensive transition.
Tavernier scored the opener as a result of poor back-post tracking. In addition, City controlled possession, having **37** touches inside the opposition box and registering **13** shots with six on target.
Yet they struggled to convert their chances despite the dominance.
**Promising Beginnings with Unresolved Flaws**
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Maresca needed a positive Premier League start after the [**3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield**](https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2026/08/16/arsenal/1268144-arsenal-3-0-manchester-city.html).
The win against Bournemouth gave City confidence. There is plenty to work on regarding the team’s defensive transitions and finishing.
The trip to Crystal Palace will provide another test.