Enzo Maresca is the favourite to succeed Pep Guardiola as Manchester City manager, with Guardiola expected to leave at the end of the season after a decade in charge. Maresca, who previously managed City's Elite Development Squad and served as Guardiola's assistant, has been out of work since leaving Chelsea in January. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he won the Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Should Maresca be appointed, he could look to raid his former club Chelsea for reinforcements. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who joined Chelsea for a British record £107m in January 2023, is a potential target as Bernardo Silva prepares to leave City. Defender Levi Colwill, who praised Maresca as 'not just a top manager but a top person' on Instagram, could also be signed to replace John Stones.
Maresca could make a statement by signing Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson for around £100m. The 23-year-old, also linked with Manchester United, could fill Silva's role or provide cover for Rodri. Forest's Premier League survival has inflated his valuation, but he could prove value for money as a long-term City asset.
Phil Foden has struggled to replicate his 2023/24 form, but Maresca is confident of reviving the 25-year-old's career, having previously helped Cole Palmer thrive at Chelsea. Foden recently signed a new four-year deal, and Maresca will aim to restore his status as Premier League Player of the Season.
