Enzo Fernandez spoke of his happiness after Manchester City’s convincing 2-0 Champions League win away to Porto, heaping praise on team-mate Erling Haaland. The Argentina midfielder also underlined his growing understanding with the prolific Norway striker and thanked manager Enzo Maresca for bringing him to the Etihad Stadium.

City claim opening victory

The English heavyweights recorded an impressive 2-0 win over Porto in their opening league-phase match of the Champions League at the Estadio do Dragao on Tuesday evening. Maresca’s men controlled the contest in Portugal, with Haaland scoring a second-half brace to seal all three points. The away success gives the Citizens a strong start to their European campaign and also continues their excellent momentum this season.

Midfielder praises warm welcome

Fernandez said he settled quickly into his new environment because of the reception from his team-mates and the backing of the supporters. Speaking after the game, the Argentine midfielder said: “I’m so happy that they [Man City players] welcome me as soon as I walked through the door. They are not just brilliant players, it’s about the human beings that they are. They have all been so kind to me, and the fans as well have been absolutely brilliant welcoming me in what is a new step in my career. I’m so excited to get going.”

Fernandez hails deadly striker

The link-up between Fernandez and Haaland paid off straightaway, with the new midfielder providing the assist for the Norwegian forward to finally break Porto’s resistance in the 47th minute.

Speaking glowingly about his team-mate’s ruthless instincts and personality, Fernandez said: “Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I’m going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists. It is not just about the player he is, he is also an amazing human being, and he has really welcomed me in and helped me.”

Looking back on his reunion with the manager after their spell together at Stamford Bridge, the playmaker added: “I’m so happy that Enzo Maresca did all he could to make this move happen. He knows me so well from our time at Chelsea, and I’m so grateful for everything that he has done for me and my family. I’m going to give 100% in every training session, in every match so I can repay him.”

Focus turns to derby

City now turn their focus back to the Premier League after building early-season winning momentum across all competitions. The balance provided by a Fernandez-led midfield and Haaland’s clinical finishing will be tested against local rivals Manchester United this weekend. Their composed and determined display in Portugal offers the ideal platform for Maresca’s side to continue their domestic dominance.