Gianluigi Donnarumma says City want to make an immediate impression when they face Inter in Saturday’s pre-season opener. The goalkeeper’s comments underline the squad’s determination to use the first outing of the summer to show they are prepared for the work ahead.

The club’s initial 28-man group is in Hong Kong for the match, giving supporters an early look at the team in action. Even in pre-season, the fixture offers a useful test, and Donnarumma indicated there is a clear focus on delivering a solid performance rather than simply treating the game as a warm-up.

The buildup also comes with interest around what Maresca can achieve, with Wright-Phillips saying he is looking forward to seeing that progress. That adds another layer to the occasion, as attention falls not only on the players’ fitness and sharpness but also on the direction of the team.

For City, the meeting with Inter is a first chance to set the tone in Hong Kong and measure where the squad stands. Donnarumma’s message is simple: the players are eager to show they are ready.