Manchester City are preparing to welcome Jeremy Doku back into training next week, while the club are also expected to confirm a new long term contract for the Belgian winger.
Doku has been rewarded after a strong campaign in which he established himself as a regular option on the flank and became an important part of Enzo Maresca’s plans at City.
Doku set to extend his stay at the Etihad
The 24 year old joined Manchester City in 2023 and lifted the Premier League title during his first season. His opening two years in England were affected by injuries and periods of inconsistent form, but last season he produced several influential performances in key matches.
City have now moved to secure his future, with Doku expected to commit himself to the club for at least another five years.
After receiving time off following his involvement with Belgium at the World Cup, the winger is among a group of players due to return to the squad ahead of the Community Shield.
It is not yet certain whether Doku will feature against Arsenal. City are expected to manage his return carefully as preparations for the new season continue.
Maresca’s attacking ideas could suit City’s wingers
Doku could become an even bigger attacking threat under Maresca following changes to the way Manchester City intend to use their wide players.
Antoine Semenyo, who linked up with the squad during the Asia tour, has spoken positively about the instructions he has received from the new manager.
Semenyo explained that Maresca introduced his tactical ideas immediately and has already held individual meetings with players to explain how he wants the team to build attacks and use the wings.
He also noted similarities with Pep Guardiola’s approach, although Maresca appears particularly keen for his wide players to remain high, stay close to the touchline and attack defenders directly.
According to Semenyo, that setup gives wingers greater freedom to receive the ball in one against one situations and create chances.
Under Guardiola, his positioning could change depending on the opponent, with some matches requiring him to stay wide and others asking him to move inside. Maresca’s message has been more straightforward, with the focus on keeping width and creating opportunities whenever possession reaches the flanks.
That approach could also benefit Doku, whose pace and ability in individual duels remain among his biggest strengths as City prepare for the new campaign.
