Man City Hold ‘Positive’ Maresca Talks As Guardiola’s Contract Winds Down

Manchester City have moved decisively to prepare for a potential post-Pep era, entering into “positive discussions” with former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca about succeeding Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

While Guardiola’s long-term future remains the subject of relentless speculation, club executives are quietly laying the groundwork for a smooth transition. The Catalan coach is now in the final months of his current deal, and although City remain hopeful he will ultimately extend his stay until 2027, they are leaving nothing to chance.

Behind the scenes, the Premier League champions have been drawing up a detailed succession plan. According to a report from The Guardian, Maresca who previously served as one of Guardiola’s assistants during City’s treble-winning 2022/23 campaign has emerged as a leading candidate to take the reins.

The Italian tactician’s familiarity with the club’s philosophy, training methods, and player dynamics is understood to be a major factor in his favor.

Maresca spent the 2023/24 season as head coach of Leicester City, guiding them back to the Premier League at the first attempt, before a brief and turbulent stint at Chelsea.

Despite his struggles in west London, City’s hierarchy believe his tactical acumen and deep understanding of Guardiola’s system make him an ideal candidate to maintain continuity.

Sources suggest that while Guardiola has yet to make a definitive decision on his future, the club’s board is determined to avoid being caught off guard.

Maresca’s return would represent a “familiar face” taking the helm—a low-risk, high-reward solution that aligns with City’s long-standing preference for cohesive, possession-based football.

For now, City publicly back Guardiola to see out his contract and beyond. But the positive nature of the talks with Maresca signals that the champions are already preparing for all scenarios ensuring that whenever Guardiola does depart, the man in the dugout next season will need no introduction to the Etihad faithful.