Enzo Maresca plans Man City squad rotation as Champions League begins

City begin their Champions League campaign against Porto at the Estadio do Dragao on Tuesday night, with Maresca already aware of the importance of managing his players' workload.

Several of his squad are facing a demanding schedule with club and international football, and the City boss believes regular rest will be essential.

"It's not easy for Erling (Haaland) or for most of the players that continue to play for club and international team," Maresca said.

"I think it is correct in the moment that you see these players start to give them some rest. It can be one game out or one week away. It depends on which moment we are in."

Managing the squad will be a key part of Maresca's first season in charge after taking over from Pep Guardiola.

The Italian has also started introducing his own ideas at City, including music during training sessions.

"It's something that I had in Leicester and in Chelsea and I introduced here," he said.

"I think the players are more happy with the music and can work better. It's just to create more environment for them."

Maresca admitted he might have chosen different songs himself, but has allowed the players to control the music.

City will be without Nico O'Reilly against Porto because of a back problem, although he could return for the weekend clash with Manchester United. Jeremy Doku remains sidelined with a calf injury.