Manchester City to appoint Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola exit looms

Enzo Maresca is on the verge of becoming the next manager of Manchester City following the expected departure of Pep Guardiola at the end of the 2025/2026 season.

Reports from BBC revealed that talks between Manchester City and Maresca are already at an advanced stage, with the Italian tactician identified as the club’s preferred successor to Guardiola. The move would mark a dramatic return for Maresca, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s historic treble-winning campaign in 2022/2023.

Guardiola, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest managers, is expected to officially step down after City’s final Premier League game of the season against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium.

The decision would end a legendary decade-long era that transformed Manchester City into one of Europe’s dominant football powers.

Why Manchester City Chose Enzo Maresca

Manchester City’s interest in Maresca is deeply connected to his understanding of Guardiola’s tactical philosophy and the club’s football structure.

The 46-year-old impressed City executives during his time within the club’s academy setup before becoming Guardiola’s assistant manager. He later left to manage Leicester City, guiding the club back to the Premier League in his first season.

Maresca’s reputation further skyrocketed after his spell at Chelsea FC, where he reportedly won the Club World Cup and Conference League while securing Champions League qualification with one of the league’s youngest squads.

Guardiola himself has openly praised Maresca in recent months.

“One of the best managers in the world,” Guardiola reportedly said while discussing his former assistant’s work at Chelsea.

The endorsement from Guardiola appears to have strengthened City’s confidence in appointing Maresca as the next leader of the club’s ambitious long-term project.

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Guardiola’s Manchester City Legacy Nears Its End

Guardiola’s expected exit signals the close of one of the most successful managerial eras in Premier League history.

Since arriving at Manchester City in 2016, the Spaniard has won multiple league titles, domestic cups and the UEFA Champions League, redefining modern football with his possession-based tactical system.

Under Guardiola, City became a global football powerhouse, dominating English football while consistently competing at the highest European level.

The manager’s departure has already sparked intense debate about his next move, with speculation linking him to international football.

According to discussions on talkSPORT, Guardiola could eventually consider managing the Spain National Football Team or even the Brazil National Football Team in the future.

However, football analysts believe Guardiola may first take a break from management, similar to the sabbatical he took between leaving FC Barcelona and joining Bayern Munich.

What Maresca’s Appointment Means for Manchester City

If confirmed, Maresca’s appointment would represent continuity rather than revolution.

Manchester City’s hierarchy reportedly wants to preserve Guardiola’s football identity while introducing a younger coach capable of evolving the team for a new era.

Maresca’s tactical profile fits that vision perfectly. His teams are known for structured possession football, aggressive pressing and intelligent positional play, principles heavily influenced by Guardiola.

His familiarity with Manchester City’s system could also ease the transition for senior players and academy talents alike.

Supporters will now wait for official confirmation from the club, with expectations growing that Maresca could be unveiled before the start of pre-season preparations.

The move could become one of the biggest managerial stories of 2026, especially considering Guardiola’s immense legacy at the Etihad Stadium.

Football World Reacts to Guardiola Exit Reports

News of Guardiola’s possible departure has triggered massive reactions across the football world.

Fans, pundits and former players have praised Guardiola’s achievements while debating whether Maresca is ready to fill one of football’s biggest managerial roles.

Many supporters see the Italian as the natural heir because of his close working relationship with Guardiola and his deep understanding of Manchester City’s tactical culture.

Others believe the pressure of replacing such an iconic figure could prove one of the toughest challenges in modern football.

Regardless, Manchester City appear determined to begin a new chapter built around continuity, stability and long-term planning.

FAQ

Who is Enzo Maresca?

Enzo Maresca is an Italian football manager and former midfielder who previously worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City. He later managed Leicester City and Chelsea, earning praise for his tactical style and player development.

Is Enzo Maresca replacing Pep Guardiola at Manchester City?

Reports indicate Manchester City are in advanced talks to appoint Maresca as Guardiola’s successor ahead of the 2026/2027 season. Official confirmation is still expected from the club.

Why is Pep Guardiola leaving Manchester City?

Pep Guardiola is reportedly preparing to leave Manchester City after nearly a decade in charge. While the club has not officially confirmed detailed reasons, speculation suggests Guardiola wants a new challenge or a break from club football.

When will Pep Guardiola leave Manchester City?

According to current reports, Guardiola is expected to leave after Manchester City’s final Premier League game of the season against Aston Villa.

What trophies did Guardiola win at Manchester City?

Guardiola won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the UEFA Champions League during his time at Manchester City, making him the most successful manager in the club’s history.

Has Enzo Maresca worked at Manchester City before?

Yes. Maresca previously coached within Manchester City’s academy before becoming Guardiola’s assistant manager during the club’s treble-winning campaign.

What style of football does Enzo Maresca play?

Maresca is known for possession-based football, high pressing, tactical discipline and structured build-up play — a style heavily influenced by Guardiola.

What happened during Maresca’s time at Chelsea?

Maresca reportedly guided Chelsea to Champions League qualification while also winning the Club World Cup and Conference League during his tenure.

Could Pep Guardiola manage a national team next?

Football analysts believe Guardiola could eventually manage Spain or Brazil, although he may first take a break from coaching.

Why is Maresca considered Guardiola’s ideal successor?

Manchester City reportedly sees Maresca as a natural continuation of Guardiola’s philosophy because of his previous role within the club and his understanding of the tactical system already in place.