Enzo Maresca agrees three-year deal to become Manchester City manager
Sports Updated: 26 May 2026 22:04 EAT
Manchester City incoming manager Enzo Maresca
Manchester City are set to usher in a new era after reports emerged that Enzo Maresca has agreed a three-year contract to become the club’s next head coach, succeeding Pep Guardiola. The Italian coach, who previously worked within City’s coaching structure, is widely reported to have reached a deal in principle as the club prepares for a major managerial transition.
According to multiple reputable outlets, including The Standard and other UK-based reports, Maresca has agreed terms on a contract that will run for an initial three years, potentially extending to 2029 depending on performance-related clauses. The agreement is understood to have been reached following weeks of internal discussions at Manchester City’s hierarchy.
The move comes after Pep Guardiola confirmed his decision to leave Manchester City at the end of the current season, bringing an end to a historic spell in which he transformed the club into one of Europe’s dominant forces. His departure has triggered an extensive search for a successor capable of maintaining the club’s high standards.
Maresca’s appointment is seen as a continuation of the Guardiola philosophy, given his previous role as part of City’s coaching setup and his tactical similarities with the Spanish manager. Club officials are believed to value his familiarity with the squad structure and possession-based system.
The Italian coach most recently managed Chelsea, where he led the team to European and global success, including a UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup triumph. Despite that success, his tenure at Stamford Bridge ended earlier this year following reported internal disagreements and performance concerns.
Before his time at Chelsea, Maresca gained significant experience at Leicester City, guiding them to promotion from the Championship. His coaching journey also includes a spell with Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad, strengthening his long-standing ties with the club.
Reports suggest that Maresca’s return to the Etihad will include a strong influence on recruitment and squad rebuilding. Early speculation indicates that he will be involved in identifying midfield reinforcements and potential tactical reshaping as the club prepares for a generational transition.
While Manchester City have not yet issued an official statement confirming the appointment, multiple sources indicate that the deal is effectively agreed in principle, with formal announcement expected once Guardiola’s departure process is complete.
The development marks a significant moment in English football, as City prepare to move from the Guardiola era into a new project led by one of his former protégés. Expectations will be high as Maresca steps into one of the most demanding managerial roles in world football.
If confirmed, Maresca’s arrival will signal both continuity and change at Manchester City, as the club aims to sustain its domestic and European dominance while adapting to a new leadership style at the helm.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD