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The lingering threat of Financial Fair Play (FFP) penalties continues to loom over Manchester City, but could such sanctions actually work to the advantage of their new manager, Enzo Maresca? Former City defender Joleon Lescott tackled this question in an exclusive interview, suggesting that any points deduction at the Etihad Stadium might ease some of the Premier League title pressure on Pep Guardiola’s successor.

Guardiola departed Manchester City after a decade of remarkable success, having collected 20 major trophies during his tenure. Now, Maresca—who previously worked alongside Guardiola at the Etihad—returns to familiar territory, taking on the formidable job of maintaining City’s dominance in English football.

Replacing one of the greatest managers of the modern era is an almost impossible challenge. Guardiola’s ten years in charge transformed City into a global powerhouse, and Maresca must now step into those towering shoes with the expectation of continuing that legacy.

The former Leicester City and Chelsea manager, who celebrated triumphs in both the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge, insists he is ready for the challenge. However, he remains uncertain whether City will begin the 2026-27 season on equal terms with their Premier League rivals.

The long-standing FFP case against Manchester City involves at least 115 charges and is expected to reach a conclusion in the near future. Speculation continues to swirl around potential punishments, ranging from transfer bans and substantial fines to, in the most extreme scenario, expulsion from the English top flight.

Should City be handed a points deduction, the size of the penalty could determine their ability to mount a credible title challenge. Some have suggested that fewer expectations might allow Maresca more breathing room as he adjusts to his new role.

When asked about that prospect, Lescott—speaking on behalf of BettingZonderCruks—responded: “I don't know what that's going to look like. I'm sure the club don't want that. I'm sure he doesn't want that. No-one wants that.

“He hasn't joined City, and City haven't appointed him, to not win trophies or challenge for top honours. So in terms of points deductions, I hope it's minimal, if any. I'm not aware of anything imminent, so I’m confident the club are preparing to compete for the league title and every competition they enter this season.”

Manchester City are well aware of how challenging it can be to move on from an iconic manager. Both Manchester United and Arsenal struggled to find smooth transitions after the legendary reigns of Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger respectively.

When asked whether City might experience similar difficulties, Lescott—who won two Premier League titles during his time with the club—explained: “I think the clubs are slightly different. The game has evolved, and it’s not just about the comparison between City and United. Even Arsenal have shown that clubs can learn from past transitions.

“Manchester United were heavily dependent on Sir Alex, and understandably so given his success. But at City, the structure ensures that Pep didn’t control every aspect of the club. He had significant influence, but there are areas he didn’t involve himself in. The club has been preparing for life after Pep for quite some time.

“The day was always coming when he wouldn’t be there, and I’m confident City are in a better position to manage this change.”

Lescott added: “That doesn’t mean they’re guaranteed to win the league. Personally, I still think Arsenal are best positioned to do that, given their stable squad, continuity under Mikel Arteta, and consistent Champions League experience.

“Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are all dealing with changes—new coaches or new challenges—so considering all factors, I believe Arsenal are currently the best placed among the contenders.”

Maresca’s tenure at Manchester City will officially begin with a series of pre-season friendlies before facing Arsenal in the Community Shield on 16 August. A week later, City will kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Bournemouth.

As a new chapter begins for the blue half of Manchester, questions remain over how the FFP saga will affect Maresca’s early months in charge—and whether financial controversies of the past might impact City’s pursuit of future glory.