Blues boss Maresca is eyeing seven Premier League wins on the spin in the 15:00 Etihad encounter after previous successes over Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Coventry City, Manchester United, Sunderland and Liverpool.
But standing in City’s way is Gary O’Neil’s newly-promoted Tractor Boys who sit in a very healthy 10th spot after three wins in six matches including triumphs over Sunderland, Crystal Palace and Fulham.
Maresca knows the Suffolk side will be no pushovers.
“I said many times, they are dangerous,” the boss stressed.
“They had the entire week to prepare and can surprise us.
“It’s a great opportunity to win and go six points ahead of second.”
City will be buoyed by a boisterous home support at the weekend with the Etihad brimming with yellow bananas.
The inflatables have been around since the 1980s but made an epic comeback in the 3-0 away triumph at Liverpool.
Maresca has enjoyed seeing their resurgence and thinks they create a good atmosphere in and around the stadium.
“Very nice,” he added.
“I didn’t know the history behind the banana. I hope tomorrow I can see many bananas in the stadium.
“It’s creates a nice environment for the fans in the stadium.”
Be at City v AEK Athens!
We welcome the Greek champions in a 20:00 (UK) kick-off on Tuesday 20 October for our third game in this year’s League Phase.
Known for their vociferous support and enjoying their first Champions League campaign since 2018/19, the striking yellow and black colours of AEK Athens make for a spectacle everywhere they go.
And every game counts if we’re to finish in the top eight and ensure safe progression through to the Round of 16.
So make sure you’re there to support the Blues, with adult prices starting from £35 and Under-18s just £20 each.
And why not make a special night of it?
We have a wide range of hospitality packages available, whether you’re looking for an exclusive bar, a dining experience or true once-in-a-lifetime magic, it’s all available at the Etihad Stadium.
In fact, hospitality starts from just £90 per person!
And you can save 20% off your hospitality when you book any two eligible home UEFA Champions League fixtures in the brand-new City Hall or CROSSBAR suites!
