Manchester City are reportedly preparing for a managerial transition, with former assistant coach Enzo Maresca emerging as the leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.
According to the BBC, Guardiola is expected to step down following Sunday’s game against Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium, their final match of the season. He leaves after what would be a decade in charge, despite still having a year left on his contract.
The report states that Manchester City have already started planning for life after Guardiola, with Maresca viewed internally as one of the strongest candidates to continue the club’s football philosophy and tactical identity.
The development would bring an end to Guardiola’s historic 10-year reign at City, a period widely regarded as one of the most dominant managerial eras in Premier League history.
Maresca previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s treble-winning era before leaving to pursue his own managerial career.
The Italian has since managed Leicester City and Chelsea, earning praise for his possession-based style of play, heavily influenced by Guardiola’s methods. He left Stamford Bridge earlier this year following internal disagreements with the club’s hierarchy.
Guardiola said previously, “One of the best managers in the world, Enzo Maresca, I know him quite well, but the job he has done at Chelsea does not get enough credit.
“Winning the Club World Cup, Conference League, and qualification for the Champions League in a league that is so tough with a young team. It is exceptional.”
Sky Sports also reports that City see Maresca as a natural successor because of his familiarity with the club’s structure, dressing room culture and tactical system.
Guardiola has transformed Manchester City into one of football’s most dominant teams since arriving from Bayern Munich in 2016. During his time at the club, City has won multiple Premier League titles, domestic trophies, and the UEFA Champions League.
The BBC reports that Guardiola could formally communicate his decision after Manchester City’s final Premier League fixture of the season.
Despite the widespread reports, neither Guardiola nor Manchester City have officially confirmed an exit announcement.
If appointed, Maresca would face the enormous challenge of succeeding one of the greatest managers in football history while attempting to maintain Manchester City’s dominance in both English and European football.
