Enzo Maresca Set to Be Appointed New Manchester City Head Coach

Manchester City are closing in on Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola's successor, with an eight-figure compensation deal to Chelsea progressing. His first match is August 1 vs Inter Milan.

Brit Brief 24/06/2026 08:01

Enzo Maresca Set to Be Appointed New Manchester City Head Coach — Enzo Maresca Set as New Man City Head Coach

Maresca Appointment Nears Completion

Manchester City are close to officially appointing Enzo Maresca as their new head coach following Pep Guardiola's departure at the end of last season. The former Chelsea boss has been the leading candidate since Guardiola confirmed his exit.

Compensation Talks with Chelsea

While a quick transition was hoped for, delays over a compensation package to Chelsea have pushed back confirmation. However, progress has been made this week, with City set to pay an eight-figure sum to secure Maresca's release. The Italian turned down other jobs to wait for the City role.

Timeline and First Fixtures

Maresca is expected to start work next month, ahead of the pre-season tour of Asia. His first game in charge will be on Saturday, August 1, against Inter Milan at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong. City will also face a Korean League XI and Atletico Madrid before returning to Manchester.

—

Wide Pickt banner — collaborative shopping lists app for Telegram, phone mockup with grocery list

Competitive Debut

Maresca's first competitive fixture is on Sunday, August 16, against Arsenal at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. His Premier League debut follows a week later, hosting AFC Bournemouth on August 23 at 2pm.