193 days after their last competitive fixture, City’s youngsters make a welcome return to action with an intriguing opening EFL Trophy Group E clash against the League Two outfit.
Of course, the COVID-19 pandemic has meant there has been a different look to City’s summer preparations with safety paramount.
To that end, though new head coach Enzo Maresca arrived to take charge at the end of August, quarantine precautions mean it will be new assistant head coach Danny Walker who oversees preparations at the One Call Stadium.
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Walker, who has extensive coaching experience through his work across many of City’s Academy age groups, says the players and coaching staff are all hugely excited and eager to maintain our fine record in the EFL Trophy which has seen us reach the quarter-finals and last 16 respectively in the past two seasons.
And Walker revealed that though the new Italian boss can’t be there in person – his imprint will be firmly stamped on the team’s preparations.
“It’s a huge game to start the season and it’s one that we are all really looking forward to,” said Walker.
“The main thing for the players, the staff, for everyone is a sense of excitement about getting back out there for a competitive fixture once again.
“It’s exciting times for the lads as they have got a new coach who is going to bring ideas that are similar to our Academy philosophy and also add in ideas of his own too.
“For me personally it has been exciting to talk and work with him.
“Even though Enzo can’t be there tonight, I’ve been in contact with him every day and he’s had a big say in who’s going to play and what we’re going to do.
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“He has been thoroughly involved even though he can’t get out on the grass.
“For me personally it been exciting to meet him and work with him.
“Enzo’s a top, top guy and I think he’s going to be great - not just for the lads but for the environment, and for the Club and he’ll give the lads something a little bit new.
“I know Enzo wants us to go there and to be brave and to try to show our personality.”
By way of preparation for the new campaign, the EDS squad have taken part in a number of friendlies, recording encouraging results against Sheffield United, Blackburn and Leeds.
The squad will once again have a youthful look to it and feature a number of second-year scholars and the rigours of Under-23 football will be another challenging part of their football education.
However, Walker says it’s a challenge the entire group is eager to embrace.
“Pre-season has been about getting the atmosphere going and being competitive,” Walker added.
“We’ve had a few friendlies leading into this game trying to get us into the best shape possible leading into the fixture.
“They have been great, we have played Leeds, Blackburn and Sheffield United and they have all presented different challenges.
“Now the lads are raring to go and really looking forward to playing Mansfield whilst also being a little bit nervous.
“For some of the players it will be their first experience of Under 23 football.
“We have a young squad – but we have a few boys who have been here before in this competition and we are hoping they can guide the younger ones.
“We know whether it’s the EFL Trophy or any other competition, every side will raise their game against Manchester City… but that is part of their challenge and education.”
