Maresca to Replace Guardiola at Man City

Enzo Maresca is set to become Manchester City’s next manager following the expected departure of Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.

Guardiola, who has enjoyed huge success at the Etihad Stadium, is reportedly preparing to leave after Sunday’s final Premier League game against Aston Villa.

Former Chelsea head coach Maresca has emerged as the leading candidate to take over from the Spaniard ahead of the 2026-27 season. City have reportedly been planning for Guardiola’s exit for more than six months, with discussions between the club and Maresca now at an advanced stage.

The 46-year-old Italian is said to be keen on the role and is expected to be officially confirmed as Guardiola’s successor soon.

The Italian manager, who won the Club World Cup and Conference League while securing Champions League qualification during his only full season at Stamford Bridge, previously worked at City.

He was an assistant to Guardiola during City’s treble-winning 2022-23 campaign and played a key role in the club’s academy prior to joining the first team.

The former West Brom and Juventus midfielder left City in 2023 to manage Leicester, whom he guided to promotion to the Premier League in his only season.

Guardiola said previously: “One of the best managers in the world, Enzo Maresca, I know him quite well, but the job he has done at Chelsea does not get enough credit.

“Winning the Club World Cup, Conference League, qualification for the Champions League in a league that is so tough with a young team. It is exceptional.”