Manchester City are reportedly moving closer to appointing Enzo Maresca as the club’s next manager amid growing speculation that Pep Guardiola could leave the Premier League champions at the end of the season. Reports from England indicate that Maresca has already reached an agreement in principle with City, with discussions centred around a long term contract that could keep him at the Etihad until 2028 with an option for an additional year.
The development has sparked massive reactions across the football world, especially because Guardiola’s possible departure would mark the end of one of the most successful managerial eras in Premier League history. Since arriving at Manchester City in 2016, Guardiola has transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football, winning multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and the UEFA Champions League. Despite still having time left on his current contract, reports suggest the Spanish tactician could activate a clause allowing him to step down this summer.
Maresca’s strong connection with Manchester City has made him one of the leading candidates to take over from Guardiola. The Italian previously worked within City’s coaching structure, managing the club’s youth side before later serving as one of Guardiola’s assistant coaches during the 2022–23 season. His tactical philosophy and possession based approach have often been compared to Guardiola’s style, making him a natural fit for the club’s long term football identity. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The former Leicester City and Chelsea manager has enjoyed a rapid rise in coaching despite mixed experiences in recent months. Maresca guided Leicester back to the Premier League during his time at the club before later taking charge at Chelsea, where he reportedly won the UEFA Europa Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup during his spell at Stamford Bridge. However, tensions with the Chelsea hierarchy eventually led to his departure earlier this year.
Reports also claim Chelsea are unhappy with Manchester City’s pursuit of Maresca and could seek compensation or explore legal options over the circumstances surrounding the negotiations. According to British media, Chelsea officials believe discussions between City and Maresca may have started while he was still contractually tied to the London club.
Although Manchester City have not officially confirmed Guardiola’s exit or Maresca’s appointment, several football insiders believe preparations are already underway behind the scenes. Guardiola himself has repeatedly avoided giving direct answers about his future, further fuelling speculation that this could indeed be his final season in charge of the club.
If the deal is eventually completed, Maresca would face the enormous task of succeeding one of football’s greatest managers. Expectations at Manchester City remain extremely high, with fans demanding continued dominance both domestically and in Europe. The Italian coach, however, is believed to have the backing of key figures within the club, including Guardiola himself, who reportedly sees Maresca as capable of continuing the football philosophy that has brought City unprecedented success over the last decade.
