Enzo Maresca has reportedly emerged as one of the leading candidates in Manchester City’s long-term contingency plans should Pep Guardiola decide to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of next season. While no official decision has been made, growing speculation around Guardiola’s future has prompted the club to quietly prepare for a possible transition.
Guardiola remains under contract with Manchester City until June 2027. However, the Spanish tactician has previously admitted that he is open to taking a break from football once his current spell in Manchester comes to an end. Those comments have fueled expectations that the 2025/26 campaign could mark his final season in charge, even if City would prefer him to see out his contract.
Pep Guardiola’s Future Creates Uncertainty at Manchester City
Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City has been defined by sustained success, domestic dominance, and a clear footballing identity. Since arriving in 2016, he has transformed the club into one of the most formidable teams in Europe, winning multiple Premier League titles and delivering long-term stability.
Despite that success, Guardiola has never hidden his belief in stepping away before stagnation sets in. He has repeatedly spoken about the physical and mental toll of elite management, hinting that a sabbatical could be on the horizon. Sources close to the club suggest that while City executives hope Guardiola stays until 2027, internal discussions acknowledge that his departure could come sooner.
With that possibility in mind, Manchester City are believed to be laying the groundwork for a smooth succession rather than reacting at the last minute. The club’s ownership and sporting directors are keen to preserve continuity, both in philosophy and structure.
Enzo Maresca’s Strong Connection to Manchester City
One name consistently linked to City’s succession planning is Enzo Maresca. The Italian coach is far from an unfamiliar figure at the Etihad, having previously worked within the club’s setup. Maresca managed Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad and later served as an assistant to Guardiola, gaining first-hand experience of the tactical principles that define City’s style.
That background is viewed as a significant advantage. City’s hierarchy values coaches who understand the club’s methodology, training culture, and positional play model. Maresca’s time under Guardiola is believed to have shaped his coaching identity, blending structured build-up play with tactical flexibility.
Those inside the club reportedly see Maresca as someone who could maintain Guardiola’s footballing legacy while adding his own refinements.
Proven Success Beyond the Etihad
Since leaving Manchester City’s coaching staff, Maresca has built an impressive managerial résumé. He rose to prominence after guiding Leicester City to the Championship title, showcasing his ability to manage pressure and rebuild a squad with clear tactical discipline.
His success continued following his move to Chelsea, where he added major silverware to his CV. Under Maresca, Chelsea lifted the UEFA Conference League before going on to win the FIFA Club World Cup, achievements that strengthened his reputation across Europe.
These accomplishments have positioned Maresca as more than just a former Guardiola assistant. He is increasingly viewed as a head coach capable of delivering results at the highest level, a key requirement for any manager stepping into Guardiola’s shoes at Manchester City.
A Turbulent Period at Chelsea Raises Questions
Despite recent successes, Maresca’s situation at Chelsea has not been without complications. His name returned to the spotlight following Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Everton in the 2025/26 Premier League season. After the match, Maresca openly admitted that he had just endured the toughest 48 hours of his managerial career at the club.
Those comments were widely interpreted as a sign of internal tension. Prior to the Everton win, Chelsea had suffered two defeats in three matches, prompting speculation that the club’s hierarchy was beginning to question Maresca’s long-term suitability.
Although he remains under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2029, doubts over Chelsea’s managerial stability have inevitably fueled rumors linking Maresca with alternative opportunities, including a potential return to Manchester City.
Manchester City Continue to Monitor the Situation
Manchester City are understood to be closely monitoring Maresca’s progress, without making any formal approach. Club officials are said to be assessing multiple candidates, but Maresca’s familiarity with the City environment keeps him firmly on the shortlist.
The club’s preference is believed to be a seamless transition rather than a radical overhaul. Appointing a coach who already understands the demands of the role, the expectations of the fanbase, and the internal culture could reduce the risks typically associated with managerial change.
At the same time, City are determined not to rush any decision. Guardiola’s future will likely become clearer toward the end of the current season, at which point contingency plans could move from theory into action.
A Decision That Could Shape Manchester City’s Next Era
For now, Pep Guardiola remains fully focused on his responsibilities at Manchester City, and there is no indication that an immediate departure is imminent. However, modern football rarely allows clubs of City’s stature to be unprepared.
Enzo Maresca’s rise, combined with his deep ties to the club, places him in a strong position should City need to act. Whether he ultimately becomes Guardiola’s successor remains uncertain, but his name is firmly embedded in conversations about the future of one of Europe’s most powerful football institutions.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will remain on Guardiola’s intentions—and on whether Manchester City’s long-term planning will soon be put to the test.
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