McAidoo has made two senior appearances for City so far, including a goal in last season's 10-1 FA Cup win over Exeter, and has continued to impress since Maresca took charge this summer following Guardiola's departure.
He previously came through Colchester United's youth system before joining City's academy, and has also drawn praise for his displays during pre-season, including a standout showing against Inter Milan in Hong Kong.
"Pre-season can sometimes be a little bit tricky, because you can fall in love with players, and then they're not the same players during the season," Maresca said.
The Italian coach was quick to highlight McAidoo specifically.
"One of the surprises has been Ryan McAidoo, who nobody expected. He was really good."
Maresca went on to explain what he sees as the best path forward for the academy graduate rather than an immediate loan move elsewhere.
"For him the best thing is to stay with us, to learn and be around the first team every day. He needs to try to soak things up from Antoine and Jeremy," Maresca said, referring to Antoine Semenyo and Jeremy Doku.
Manchester City face Arsenal in the Community Shield on Sunday, a fixture that will offer Maresca his first competitive test in charge as he begins the post-Guardiola era at the Etihad.