Manchester City have begun laying the groundwork for a future beyond Pep Guardiola, with Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca emerging as a leading internal favourite should the Spanish manager step down when his current contract expires in 2027. The development reflects City’s long-standing policy of strategic continuity at the Etihad, even as Guardiola continues to dominate English football.
Guardiola, who has transformed City into one of the most successful teams in modern football history, is under contract until the summer of 2027. While there has been no official indication that he will leave at that point, senior figures at the club are understood to be preparing for all eventualities, mindful of the scale of transition that would follow the departure of a manager who has delivered four consecutive Premier League titles and the historic 2023 treble.
Maresca’s name has gained prominence largely because of his deep ties to the club and Guardiola himself. The Italian previously managed Manchester City’s Under-23 side, guiding them to a Premier League 2 title, and later worked as part of Guardiola’s senior coaching staff. During that period, Guardiola publicly described Maresca as “one of the best managers in the world,” praise that has continued to resonate within City’s hierarchy.
Since leaving City, Maresca’s coaching stock has risen steadily. Now in charge at Chelsea, he has been tasked with stabilising a club that has endured managerial upheaval and inconsistent performances in recent seasons. While his appointment was initially seen as a long-term project, recent frustrations over sporting support and internal pressures have fuelled speculation about his future, despite Chelsea’s desire to keep him in place until at least 2030.
Any potential move for Maresca would, however, come at a significant cost. Chelsea are believed to have protected themselves with a substantial release clause, meaning Manchester City would need to pay a hefty compensation fee should they decide to accelerate succession plans. As of now, sources close to Chelsea insist the club views Maresca as central to its rebuilding process and has no intention of entertaining offers.
