Manchester City are preparing for the end of an era, with Pep Guardiola expected to step down as manager following the club’s final Premier League match of the season against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.
According to reports, City have already identified former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as the leading candidate to take over ahead of the 2026–27 campaign. Discussions between the club and the Italian coach are believed to be at an advanced stage, with Maresca eager to return to Manchester in a new role.
The possible appointment would mark a remarkable rise for Maresca, who has rapidly built a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young managers. During his only full season at Chelsea, he guided the club to UEFA Champions League qualification while also winning the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup.
Maresca is no stranger to the Etihad setup. Before stepping into senior management, he worked closely under Pep Guardiola as part of Manchester City’s coaching staff during the club’s historic treble-winning 2022–23 season. He also played a significant role in the club’s academy structure, earning praise for his tactical knowledge and player development skills.
After leaving City in 2023, Maresca took charge of Leicester City and immediately guided the club back to the Premier League in his debut season. His success at Leicester, followed by his achievements at Chelsea, has only strengthened his growing reputation in elite football circles.
Guardiola himself has previously spoken highly of Maresca’s managerial qualities, describing him as “one of the best managers in the world.” The City boss praised the Italian’s achievements with a young Chelsea side, highlighting his ability to compete in one of the toughest leagues in football while also winning major honours.
Maresca’s journey mirrors that of Mikel Arteta, another Guardiola protégé who transitioned from assistant coach at Manchester City into a successful managerial career of his own. Like Arteta, Maresca appears ready to step out from Guardiola’s shadow and lead one of Europe’s biggest clubs on his own terms.
