Maresca emerges as leading candidate for Manchester City job

Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reportedly been confirmed the leading contender to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City if the Spaniard leaves the club next year.

Maresca, who left Chelsea on January 1 following disagreements with the club’s hierarchy, is said to be highly regarded within City’s leadership structure due to his previous work under Guardiola.

The Italian enjoyed a successful spell at Stamford Bridge, guiding Chelsea to both the Conference League and Club World Cup titles before his departure midway through the season.

Guardiola still has one year remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium, but uncertainty continues over whether he will remain beyond the current campaign.

Strong Manchester City links

Maresca previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during Manchester City’s Treble-winning 2022-23 season. He also spent time working within the club’s youth academy setup earlier in his coaching career.

Those connections have reportedly placed him at the top of City’s shortlist should Guardiola decide to step away from management or pursue a new challenge.

The former Juventus midfielder has largely avoided discussing speculation surrounding his future but acknowledged that decisions will soon need to be made as the season nears its conclusion.

Maresca waiting on Guardiola decision

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia, Maresca said: “What matters, regardless of the club, is being ready.”

“There are only a few weeks left until the end of the season, then we’ll see what happens.”

City officials are expected to seek clarity over Guardiola’s plans in the coming months as the club prepares for another major campaign both domestically and in Europe.

Guardiola has overseen the most successful period in Manchester City’s history since arriving in 2016, winning multiple Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League trophy.