Manchester City is edging closer to finalising a deal for Enzo Maresca as the club accelerates plans for life after Pep Guardiola.
Talks between City and Maresca are continuing this week, although sources indicate that all aspects of the proposed three-year agreement are yet to be completely finalised. Discussions are currently focused on the timeline of his appointment, the structure of his coaching staff, and several contractual details.
Despite the remaining negotiations, Maresca is widely expected to emerge as Guardiola’s long-term successor at the Etihad Stadium.
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Guardiola’s trusted former assistant
According to Sky Sports, Maresca is no stranger to Manchester City’s setup. The Italian served as Guardiola’s assistant during the club’s historic 2022-23 treble-winning campaign and was highly regarded internally for his tactical work and relationship with players.
His understanding of Guardiola’s positional style of football is believed to be one of the main reasons City see him as the ideal continuation of the current project rather than a dramatic tactical reset.
The developments come shortly after City confirmed the departure of several senior members of Guardiola’s backroom team, including Pep Lijnders, Kolo Touré, Lorenzo Buenaventura, Manel Estiarte and Xabi Mancisidor.
Their exits are being viewed as part of a broader restructuring ahead of the managerial transition.
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Chelsea exit still casts shadow
According to Sky Sports, Maresca most recently managed Chelsea before leaving the club in January under difficult circumstances. Despite his departure, he reportedly still had more than three years remaining on his contract.
That situation could lead to legal and financial discussions regarding compensation, with Chelsea expected to closely examine the terms surrounding his next appointment.
Reports suggest Maresca had already informed Chelsea officials last autumn that Manchester City had shown interest in him as a potential successor to Guardiola in the future.
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City planning for post-Guardiola era
According to Sky Sports, Guardiola’s eventual departure has been one of the biggest long-term questions surrounding Manchester City in recent years. After transforming the club into one of Europe’s dominant forces, replacing him was always expected to require a carefully planned transition.
Maresca’s appointment would represent continuity more than revolution. His familiarity with City’s football structure, academy system and tactical philosophy makes him a natural internal successor in the eyes of the club hierarchy.
An official announcement is now expected once the remaining details of the agreement are resolved in the coming days.
