News Focus
- Maresca agrees principle deal to succeed Guardiola at Manchester City from 2026-27
- Former Chelsea boss rejects approaches from Fiorentina, La Liga and Premier League rivals
- Italian tactician set to sign three-year contract at the Etihad Stadium
- Maresca previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant during his first spell at the club
- New manager already targeting Atalanta defender Marco Palestra for next season
Manchester City are preparing to name Enzo Maresca as the successor to Pep Guardiola. The former Chelsea manager has reached a principle agreement to return to the Etihad Stadium next season.
According to TalkSport, the Italian has accepted a three-year contract. He will take charge of the Premier League champions when Guardiola departs at the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
Maresca left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent on January 1, 2026. He secured the Conference League and Club World Cup trophies during his short spell with the Blues.
The 44-year-old has turned down offers from several top clubs. Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici approached him in March, but Maresca preferred a return to Manchester. He also rejected interest from La Liga and other English sides.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that City will announce Guardiola’s departure and Maresca’s appointment soon. The new boss is already planning for the future.
Reports suggest Maresca wants Atalanta centre-back Marco Palestra as his first signing. The defender could join the club when the new manager arrives next season.