Doku has missed the last five games after picking up a knock in the Community Shield clash with Arsenal, but the boss confirmed he is closing in on a return.
“He is very close,” said Maresca.
The boss also says the suspension of Phil Foden is a big blow, with the England midfielder now serving a three-match ban for his dismissal in Sunday’s Manchester derby.
“For us it is a big [blow],” he said.
“Phil started well for us and did good in the minutes he was on the pitch on Sunday but he is out tomorrow, then Sunderland and then Liverpool - then he’s back with us.”
Maresca also confirmed he intends to give some minutes to some of our younger players that haven’t had the chance to impress so far this campaign.
Academy graduates Ryan McAidoo, Kaden Braithwaite and Floyd Samba  were all promoted to the first team squad by Maresca and all are likely to see some involvement against the Canaries.
“When we started pre-season we had many young players as you know, and then at the end we decided to keep these three players because we think they can improve training with us and then they can get some minutes,” he said.
“Ryan played in the Premier League twice, Kaden against Palace and the only one who hasn’t had minutes is Floyd - but he will and they will be involved for sure.”
Be here as City begin defence of Carabao Cup crown
Don’t miss our Carabao Cup third round game with Norwich City as we look to defend the trophy we won in 2025/26.
Our clash with the Canaries takes place on Thursday 17 September at the Etihad Stadium with a 19:30 (UK) kick-off.
Tickets are on general sale and priced at £20 for adults and £5 for kids – with up to six tickets available to purchase per supporter.
The Blues are nine-time winners of the competition – behind only Liverpool – having emerged victorious in 1970, 1976, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2026.
Make sure you secure your spot at the Etihad Stadium as we look for more glory this season!
