Manchester City are considering Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca as a primary successor to Pep Guardiola amid increasing speculation that the Catalan coach will leave the club next summer.
Manchester City have reportedly identified Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca as a leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola, should the Spaniard depart the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season.
Despite Guardiola’s contract running until 2027, there is “growing anticipation of this being Guardiola’s last season at City,” with club officials already advancing contingency plans. Maresca, a former assistant under Guardiola, remains highly regarded by the City hierarchy.
The Italian tactician’s standing has risen following a successful tenure at Chelsea, where he secured the Europa Conference League title and Champions League qualification.
Guardiola himself has recently praised his former deputy, describing him as “one of the best managers in the world, Enzo Maresca. I know him quite well. The job he has done at Chelsea is not credited enough.” This endorsement further fuels speculation regarding a potential reunion in Manchester.
While Maresca is committed to a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, his recent “worst 48 hours” comments have sparked internal confusion and fueled rumors about his future.
A final decision on the City vacancy rests with Guardiola, who previously noted, “After my contract with City, I’m going to stop. I am sure. I don’t know if I’m going to retire, but I’m going to take a break.”