Manchester City have reportedly reached an agreement with former assistant coach Enzo Maresca to become the club’s next manager following the expected departure of Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.
According to reports, Maresca has agreed to a three-year contract that will see him return to the Etihad Stadium, where he previously worked under Guardiola before embarking on a successful managerial career of his own.
The development marks a significant moment in Manchester City’s recent history as the club prepares for life after Guardiola, widely regarded as one of the greatest football managers of all time.
Speculation surrounding Guardiola’s future has intensified in recent months despite the Spaniard previously dismissing suggestions that he was preparing to leave the club.
Although Guardiola still has a year remaining on his current contract, reports indicate that Manchester City have begun planning for a managerial transition, identifying Maresca as the ideal candidate to continue the club’s football philosophy.
Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has been one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, delivering numerous domestic and international trophies while transforming th
Maresca’s name had consistently featured among the leading contenders to replace Guardiola due to his close association with the City manager and his understanding of the club’s tactical approach.
The Italian tactician previously served as Guardiola’s assistant between 2022 and 2023 after spending time coaching Manchester City’s youth teams.
His work within the club earned widespread praise before he left to pursue a senior managerial career.
Maresca later guided Leicester City to promotion from the Championship before taking charge of Chelsea, where he enjoyed a successful spell that reportedly included winning major trophies and establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young coaches
Renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Maresca has reached a full verbal agreement with Manchester City.
In a post shared on social media, Romano stated: Enzo Maresca has a total verbal agreement with Manchester City. The Italian manager has always been considered the ideal candidate to replace Pep Guardiola.”
He added that all major terms of the agreement had been settled and that Maresca is expected to sign an initial three-year contract.
The football journalist further described the appointment as the beginning of a “new era” for the Premier League champions.
For Maresca, the move represents a return to familiar surroundings.
Having previously worked closely with Guardiola and the Manchester City hierarchy, the Italian is already familiar with the club’s structure, playing style and long-term vision.
His previous experience within the City Football Group is believed to have played a major role in the club’s decision-making process.
Club executives reportedly view him as the ideal candidate to ensure continuity while also bringing fresh ideas to the team.
Should the appointment be finalized, Maresca will inherit one of the most demanding jobs in world football.
Replacing Guardiola comes with enormous expectations, particularly given the success Manchester City have enjoyed under the Spaniard’s leadership.
Supporters will expect the club to continue competing for Premier League titles, domestic cups and UEFA Champions League honours.
Despite the pressure, Maresca’s tactical knowledge, familiarity with the club and managerial experience are expected to provide a strong foundation as he prepares to lead Manchester City into its next chapter.
With Guardiola’s departure reportedly approaching and Maresca now poised to take charge, Manchester City appear ready to begin a significant transition.
The appointment would mark the start of a new era at the Etihad Stadium, with one of Guardiola’s former trusted assistants stepping forward to continue the legacy built by the legendary manager.
Football fans across the world will now be watching closely as Manchester City prepare for what could be one of the most important managerial changes in the club’s modern history.
