By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
Manchester City are actively preparing for a potential post-Pep Guardiola era, with current Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca emerging as a prominent figure in their contingency plans should the Catalan depart at the end of the season.
According to exclusive reporting from The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the 45-year-old Italian — who previously worked under Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium — is “high among the candidates” being considered by City hierarchy. Maresca retains strong admirers within the club after his spells coaching the Elite Development Squad (EDS) and as a first-team assistant, where he contributed to the historic treble-winning campaign in 2022-23.
Sources outside the club indicate a growing expectation that the 2025-26 campaign could mark Guardiola’s final season in charge. While no firm decision has been made — and one is unlikely before the season’s conclusion — City are advancing preparatory work to ensure continuity if the manager, whose contract expires next summer, opts to leave.
Guardiola’s potential exit would close one of the most dominant chapters in Premier League history, with the 54-year-old having led City to multiple titles and redefined modern football tactics. However, the club views a transition as manageable, boasting a young core including Phil Foden and Erling Haaland to build around.
Maresca’s candidacy stems from his deep familiarity with City’s philosophy and structures. He first joined the club in 2020, guiding the EDS to the Premier League 2 title before stepping up to Guardiola’s senior staff. His possession-based, high-pressing style mirrors Guardiola’s approach, earning praise from the manager himself, who recently called Maresca “one of the best in the world” for his work at Chelsea.
That said, Maresca would not be the sole option. City are likely exploring a range of profiles, though his prior success at the club positions him prominently.
The news comes amid a challenging period for City on the pitch, but planning reflects the club’s proactive approach under sporting director Txiki Begiristain and the ownership group.
Maresca, meanwhile, has impressed in his first full Premier League season at Chelsea following promotion success with Leicester City. Any move back to Manchester would require significant compensation and negotiation, given his long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.
As the season progresses, Guardiola’s future — and City’s succession strategy — will remain a major talking point in English football.
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