Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has praised Enzo Maresca for the impact he has made at Manchester City, admitting his side face a difficult challenge against one of the Premier League’s strongest teams.

Villa host City on Saturday, with Emery’s side looking to close the gap on their opponents following a difficult start to the campaign.

The Spaniard believes Maresca’s understanding of City’s culture and playing style has been crucial to their impressive form, having previously worked under Pep Guardiola.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s fixture, Emery singled out Maresca as the driving force behind City’s performances.

“I think the key there is the coach. Enzo Maresca is doing a fantastic job,” Emery said.

“He worked with Guardiola, he worked in Leicester, successful, in Chelsea, successful.

“And now he knows Manchester City players – the culture, the club. And he is following the same way they did before with Guardiola. I think this is the key.

“They are favourite with Arsenal. The last year Manchester City and Arsenal they are so strong, so competitive in everything. The identity is clear. So we dream sometimes to be close to them.”

Aston Villa face Manzambi fitness concern ahead of City clash

Villa could be without summer signing Johan Manzambi for Saturday’s match, with the midfielder facing a late fitness test.

The in-form youngster has impressed since arriving at Villa Park, but his involvement against City remains uncertain.

Emery also confirmed that Amadou Onana, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Matteo Ruggeri will miss the fixture.

“Some players clearly out like Amadou Onana, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Matteo Ruggeri,” he explained.

“Other players we will see how they are after the match we played on Wednesday and so on.

“They were with some pain, but I can’t tell you now until after the training session this afternoon.”