Chelsea's current manager, Enzo Maresca, has been identified as a prime candidate to take over from Pep Guardiola at Manchester City when the legendary coach eventually departs the Etihad Stadium, according to recent reports.
The Guardiola Timeline and City's Contingency Plans
Guardiola, who signed a contract extension in November last year, is officially committed to the Premier League champions until 2027. This agreement ended speculation of a potential exit at the close of the 2024-25 season. However, fresh analysis from The Athletic suggests the 54-year-old's departure could be brought forward, potentially occurring at the end of the current campaign. The final decision is expected to be made closer to the season's conclusion.
In anticipation of this eventuality, Manchester City's hierarchy is believed to be compiling a shortlist of potential successors. Multiple sources indicate that Enzo Maresca, who previously worked under Guardiola, features prominently on this list and is considered one of the favourites for the role.
Maresca's Deep Ties to Manchester City
The Italian coach's connection to the club is well-established. Maresca served as the head coach of Manchester City's Elite Development Squad (U23s) before being promoted to act as one of Pep Guardiola's assistant coaches between 2022 and 2023. He left the City Football Group to take the helm at Leicester City, where he successfully secured the Foxes' immediate return to the Premier League by winning the Championship in the 2023-24 season.
His impressive work at the King Power Stadium earned him the top job at Chelsea in the summer of 2024. Since his arrival in West London, Maresca has already guided a young Blues squad to silverware, winning the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Uncertainty at Chelsea Amidst Speculation
Despite being under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge until 2030, with an option for an additional year, Maresca recently cast doubt on his position. Following Chelsea's 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday, the 45-year-old made cryptic comments, stating he had endured 'the worst 48 hours' of his tenure in the build-up to the match.
He claimed that 'people' had failed to show him and his players sufficient support prior to the home win, though he later refused to elaborate on who he was referring to. Maresca did stress that he was 'absolutely' happy at the club and sought to draw a line under the remarks. Chelsea have declined to comment on the speculation linking their manager to City.
On the pitch, Chelsea's 3-1 win against Cardiff City has confirmed their place in next year's two-legged semi-final, where they will face either Arsenal or Crystal Palace.
