Manchester City have identified Chelsea's Enzo Maresca as a leading candidate to take over the managerial reins should Pep Guardiola decide to end his trophy-laden tenure at the Etihad Stadium next summer.
Guardiola's Future Casts a Shadow
Despite signing a contract extension until 2027 just last year, there is a growing sense within the Premier League champions that the upcoming season could be Guardiola's last. The Spanish tactician has been at the helm for a decade, delivering an unprecedented era of success including six Premier League titles and the club's first Champions League trophy.
Guardiola himself has recently addressed speculation, stating he will not outstay his welcome. "I will not stay when I feel that the club needs a change," he said earlier this season, while also expressing his current commitment to the project.
Why Maresca is on City's Radar
The contingency planning at the Etihad has led the hierarchy to Chelsea's current boss, Enzo Maresca. The 45-year-old Italian is a familiar face at City, having served the club in two separate capacities.
His CV includes:
- A spell as a youth coach at the City Football Academy.
- A period working as an assistant manager directly under Pep Guardiola.
- Success at Leicester City, winning promotion to the Premier League.
- Leading Chelsea to Europa Conference League and Club World Cup glory.
Maresca remains under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge until 2029, with an option for a further year, which would make any approach complex.
Maresca's Chelsea Comments Fuel Speculation
The potential for a move has been amplified by Maresca's own surprising comments about his situation at Chelsea. Following a recent victory over Everton, he publicly voiced frustrations, calling the preceding 48 hours "the worst" since he joined the club due to a lack of support.
"Since I joined the club, the last 48 hours have been the worst 48 hours since I joined the club because many people didn't support us," Maresca stated, declining to elaborate further when pressed. This outburst has thrown his long-term future with the Blues into major doubt.
While it is unclear if Maresca would be interested in a return to Manchester, and Chelsea would likely resist any move from a direct rival, his existing connection to the club's philosophy makes him a logical candidate for City's decision-makers.
Ultimately, any managerial movement hinges on the final decision of Pep Guardiola. For now, Manchester City are ensuring they have a plan in place, with Enzo Maresca firmly on their shortlist.
