Enzo Maresca, the current Chelsea manager, has emerged as the leading contender to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City whenever the decorated Catalan's tenure concludes, according to fresh reports.
Guardiola's Future in the Balance
The future of Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium is once again under scrutiny. Despite signing a contract extension in November 2023 that is intended to keep him at the club until 2027, speculation persists that his departure could come much sooner.
According to The Athletic, the 54-year-old manager's exit might now be scheduled for the end of the current 2024-25 campaign. The final decision is expected to be made closer to the season's conclusion, leaving a significant question mark over the club's leadership.
Maresca's City Connections and Chelsea Success
In preparation for Guardiola's eventual departure, Manchester City are believed to be compiling a shortlist of potential successors. Sources indicate that Enzo Maresca is a highly favoured option, thanks to his deep connections with the club.
Maresca previously worked under Guardiola as an assistant manager between 2022 and 2023, after first cutting his teeth as the boss of Manchester City's Under-23s side. He left to take charge of Leicester City, masterminding their immediate return to the Premier League at the end of the 2023-24 season.
The 45-year-old Italian then joined Chelsea in the summer of 2024. In a short space of time, he has already led his promising young squad to silverware, winning both the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.
Cryptic Comments Fuel Speculation
The rumours linking Maresca to City have gained traction following his own cryptic comments about his situation at Chelsea. After his side's 2-0 win against Everton on Saturday, Maresca revealed he had endured the 'worst 48 hours' of his tenure in the build-up to the match.
He alleged that unspecified 'people' had failed to show him and his players sufficient 'support', though he later refused to elaborate on these remarks. The manager did stress he was 'absolutely' happy at the club, attempting to draw a line under the incident.
Chelsea have declined to comment on the speculation. Maresca is under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2030, which includes the club's option for an additional year.
On the pitch, Chelsea have built momentum with a 3-1 Carabao Cup victory over Cardiff City, setting up a two-legged semi-final clash against either Arsenal or Crystal Palace in the new year.
