Enzo Maresca is reportedly on the verge of becoming Manchester City’s next manager as the club prepares for life after Pep Guardiola. The Italian coach has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge ahead of the 2026-27 season, with negotiations believed to be at an advanced stage.
Reports suggest Guardiola is expected to leave City following Sunday’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium. Although no official announcement has been made, the club has reportedly been planning for the Spaniard’s departure for several months.
Maresca, who previously worked under Guardiola at Manchester City, is understood to be eager to return to the club. The 46-year-old served as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23 and also played an important role within the club’s academy system before moving into senior management.
The former Leicester City and Chelsea coach has strengthened his reputation in recent years. After guiding Leicester back to the Premier League, he enjoyed a successful spell at Chelsea, winning the Conference League and Club World Cup while securing Champions League qualification with a young squad.
Guardiola has publicly praised Maresca in the past, describing him as one of the best managers in football and highlighting the impressive work he carried out at Chelsea. That endorsement, combined with City’s familiarity with his coaching style and personality, has made him a strong candidate to continue the club’s football philosophy.
Despite his achievements, Maresca would face enormous pressure stepping into Guardiola’s role. The Spaniard transformed Manchester City into one of Europe’s dominant forces, winning multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League during a historic era at the club.
City’s hierarchy, however, reportedly view Maresca as a manager capable of providing continuity and stability after Guardiola’s departure. His understanding of the club’s structure and possession-based style is seen as a key advantage as Manchester City prepare to enter a new chapter.
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