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Manchester City have acted quickly to secure their managerial future by offering Enzo Maresca a three-year contract to take over from Pep Guardiola. The Italian tactician, who departed Chelsea earlier this year, is now poised for a dramatic return to the Etihad Stadium. However, his appointment will see Chelsea receive a substantial compensation amount.

City secure their post-Guardiola successor

Manchester City are in the final stages of confirming Maresca as their next first-team manager on a three-year deal. The Italian has been handpicked to replace Guardiola, who will conclude his historic decade-long spell in Manchester marked by numerous trophies and unmatched success.

While the deal nears completion, Chelsea are expected to gain a notable compensation package before the move is officially finalised.

As per reports from talkSPORT, Chelsea are considering legal options in case an agreement is not reached. Nonetheless, insiders connected to Maresca and City maintain that the Italian coach will begin his new role as planned.

Exit from Stamford Bridge sparks controversy

During his tenure in London, Maresca was contractually obliged to inform Chelsea of any external approaches. It is believed he disclosed interest from both Manchester City and Juventus.

This revelation created tension within the Chelsea leadership, with co-owner Behdad Eghbali suggesting that the full reasons behind Maresca’s departure would become evident over time.

While sources within Chelsea believe Maresca was swayed by the City job, those at the Etihad insist that no prior assurances were given to him last year.

Since leaving Stamford Bridge, Maresca has become one of the most sought-after managers in Europe, drawing attention from AC Milan, Real Madrid, and Tottenham. Yet, the opportunity to continue Guardiola’s legacy at City proved irresistible.

Backed by Guardiola himself

Pep Guardiola has personally endorsed Maresca’s appointment. The Catalan coach, expected to maintain some involvement with the City Football Group, reportedly participated in the selection process alongside sporting director Hugo Viana. Guardiola views Maresca as the perfect successor to uphold the Johan Cruyff-inspired footballing philosophy that has shaped City’s modern era.

Maresca already enjoys strong respect within the Manchester City dressing room, where players have been taken aback by Guardiola’s imminent exit. His talent for building close emotional connections with players was evident during his time at Leicester City, when players famously held a spontaneous celebration outside his residence. His rapport with Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella at Chelsea further underlines his reputation as an exceptional man-manager.

Preparing for summer signings

As Maresca readies himself to take charge, attention has already turned to the approaching summer transfer market. Working closely with Hugo Viana, the Italian manager aims to tailor the squad to suit his tactical vision.

The club has prioritised adding a right-back and a central midfielder to ensure a smooth transition under the new system.

Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has emerged as a key target for City’s new management, while Newcastle’s Tino Livramento is also highly regarded. Interestingly, reports from Argentina suggest Maresca could try to reunite with Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the Etihad.