News Focus
- Enzo Maresca is the leading candidate to become the new Manchester City manager
- Pep Guardiola is expected to leave the club following Sunday’s final match against Aston Villa
- The Italian previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s treble-winning campaign
- Maresca won the Club World Cup and Conference League during his time at Chelsea
- He also secured promotion to the Premier League with Leicester City in 2023
Manchester City are preparing for a major change in their dugout. Enzo Maresca is close to agreeing a deal to replace Pep Guardiola as the club’s new manager.
Guardiola is set to depart the Etihad Stadium after Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa. This fixture marks the team’s final match of the season. The club has spent over six months planning for the Spaniard’s exit.
Maresca has emerged as the top choice for the position. Talks between the two parties are at an advanced stage. The 46-year-old is keen to take the role and could be confirmed for the 2026-27 campaign.
The Italian knows the club well from his previous spell in Manchester. He served under Guardiola during the historic 2022-23 season. He also gained valuable experience working with the club’s academy players.
Before joining Chelsea, Maresca managed Leicester City. He led the Foxes back to the Premier League after just one season in charge. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he lifted the Club World Cup and the Conference League trophies. He also guided the team to Champions League qualification.
Guardiola has previously praised his potential successor. He described Maresca as one of the best managers in the world. He also defended the Italian’s achievements with Chelsea’s young squad.