ENZO MARESCA BLASTS JÉRÉMY DOKU: “HE IS THE MAIN REASON MAN CITY LOST THE EPL TITLE” AS INTERNAL TENSIONS EMERGE AT THE ETIHAD
Manchester City have been rocked by explosive reports claiming manager Enzo Maresca has launched a stunning internal criticism of winger Jérémy Doku, with tensions now reportedly surfacing inside the dressing room following a growing sense of unrest at the club.
According to multiple sources in England, what began as frustration over tactical execution has escalated into a far more serious situation, with claims of internal division emerging between sections of the squad and the new managerial setup at the Etihad.
The most explosive allegation circulating in the British media is that Maresca directly blamed Doku for key failures during decisive moments of the campaign, suggesting the winger’s end product and decision-making played a major role in Manchester City missing out on the Premier League title.
The reported quote has sent shockwaves across football circles:
“He is the main reason Manchester City lost the EPL title.”
While Manchester City have not officially confirmed or denied the comments, the story has already intensified speculation about growing tension within the squad as Maresca attempts to assert his authority and reshape the team’s tactical identity.
Sources suggest that internal disagreements have begun to surface over the club’s evolving playing style, with Maresca pushing for a more structured and disciplined positional system compared to the more fluid attacking approach previously associated with City.
This shift is believed to have created friction with certain attacking players, particularly Jérémy Doku, whose game is built on direct dribbling, explosive acceleration, and improvisation in one-v-one situations.
Doku has been a key attacking outlet for Manchester City, especially in matches where breaking down deep defensive structures requires individual creativity rather than structured combinations. However, reports suggest that his role and decision-making have come under increasing scrutiny within the new system.
The emergence of internal tension has triggered concern among supporters, with many questioning whether early instability could affect Manchester City’s long-term ambitions under Maresca.
Some fans believe the manager is simply imposing higher standards and accountability, while others fear that publicly or internally singling out a key attacker could deepen divisions within the dressing room.
Inside the club, senior figures are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, with efforts underway to prevent the reported disagreements from developing into a full-blown internal conflict. Maintaining squad unity is seen as a priority during this period of tactical transition.
Former players and analysts have also reacted to the reports, highlighting that internal friction is not uncommon when a new manager introduces significant tactical changes. However, many have stressed that elite teams like Manchester City must resolve such issues privately to avoid destabilising performance levels.
Despite the controversy, Doku remains an important part of City’s attacking structure. His ability to stretch defences, create chaos in wide areas, and produce moments of individual brilliance continues to make him a valuable option in high-pressure matches.
At this stage, Manchester City have made no official statement regarding the alleged remarks, and it remains unclear whether the reported comments reflect exact wording or have been intensified through media interpretation.
Nevertheless, the situation has already become one of the most discussed early narratives surrounding Maresca’s tenure, with internal dynamics at the Etihad now under increased scrutiny as the club navigates a sensitive phase of transition.