The Black Cats were last campaign’s surprise package, finishing seventh and earning Europa League football in the process.
In what will be manager Régis Le Bris’ 100th game in charge, Sunderland arrive at the Etihad having already recorded three 1-0 wins in all competitions, held Brentford 1-1 away and given Premier League champions Arsenal a stern test in recent weeks.
The Blues are looking to record a seventh straight win under Maresca, but the Italian is full of admiration for work Le Bris has done since arriving at the club in 2024.
“I watched them already in the last two days, three or four games. I know them already,” said Maresca.
“I know how strong they are, and I have the feeling that on Sunday we need a top performance to beat them, and we need to be 100% to win the game.
“I watched the game live against Arsenal, and then I watched again the last two days. If you watch the game, you can realize how strong they are. I think personally that they didn’t deserve to lose that game.
“But again, they are very strong, very well coached from their manager. And again, they are already have time together, so you can see what they want to do on the ball and off the ball.
“My feeling is, after watching them, is that on Sunday it will be the toughest game since the start of the season.
“If you watch them, you are not surprised [at how well they have done], because you will realise how good they are, how good they are on the ball, off the ball, how aggressive they are, the amount of duels that they win every game.
“So, yeah, if you’re just thinking about, the team got promoted and then [qualify for] Europe, you are surprised - but if you watch them, you are not surprised because you realize how good they are.
“But in front of our fans, it’s always nice and special to play, so much better to play here than away.
“It’s important because in case we win, it’s one more win. But as I say, I have the feeling that Sunderland game will be the toughest game since we started the season.”
The boss added that he is hopeful Jérémy Doku will be available for the game as well, adding:: “Probably he can be available for Sunderland.”
City v Sunderland: Tickets on general sale!
Don’t miss our Premier League encounter with AFC Sunderland – with tickets on general sale.
Our clash with the Black Cats takes place on Sunday 20 September at the Etihad Stadium with a 14:00 (UK) kick-off.
There’s four tickets available to purchase per supporter as well as three additional spots for Season Ticket Members.
Last time out, we defeated the Wearsiders 3-0 thanks to goals from Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol and Phil Foden.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium as we look for another three points this season.
