Enzo Maresca looks set to become Manchester City's first new manager in a decade when he replaces Pep Guardiola this Sunday. The former Chelsea boss could bring several players from his old club to the Etihad Stadium this summer.
Maresca's Chelsea Connections
The Italian previously served as Guardiola's assistant at City and led the club's youth team to a league title in 2021. His appointment could leverage his strong relationships at Chelsea, where he managed for 18 months.
Potential Targets
Enzo Fernandez
The Argentine midfielder, a British record signing in 2023, has hinted at an exit. Maresca made him vice-captain at Chelsea, and with Bernardo Silva leaving City, a move for Fernandez—likely over £100 million—makes sense.
Levi Colwill
With John Stones departing, City need a centre-back. Colwill, 23, has a close bond with Maresca, who he called "a top person" on Instagram. However, he missed the 2025/26 season with an ACL injury, making his signing a gamble.
Joao Pedro
The Brazilian forward, signed by Maresca for Chelsea from Brighton for £55m last year, is versatile and can play across the front line. Despite being contracted until 2033, City could tempt a move.
Cole Palmer
Palmer, 24, left City in 2023 for more game time and has thrived at Chelsea. He enjoyed working with Maresca, but has said he has "no plans to move club" and doesn't miss Manchester, making a return unlikely.
With Guardiola's exit imminent, Maresca's appointment could reshape both Manchester City and Chelsea's squads this summer.
