According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Italian coach Enzo Maresca is considered the “only candidate” for the Manchester City managerial position, should Pep Guardiola choose to leave at the conclusion of the current season.
Maresca, who previously managed Chelsea and Parma, is reportedly the leading and sole contender for the Manchester City job for the 2026-27 campaign.
While Maresca achieved success at Chelsea, winning the Conference League and Club World Cup, he departed Stamford Bridge on January 1, 2026, following disagreements with the club’s hierarchy.
A former midfielder for Juventus, Maresca is reportedly awaiting Pep Guardiola’s decision regarding his future at Manchester City, as well as a potential approach from the club.
Guardiola’s contract with Manchester City has one year remaining, but his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain, with speculation that the Spanish manager might opt to depart.
Maresca served as Guardiola’s assistant coach during the 2022-23 season, a period in which Manchester City secured a historic Treble.
Additionally, the Italian tactician had a prior stint working with the Manchester City youth academy during the 2020-21 season.
“What’s important, irrespective of the club, is being prepared,” Maresca stated in a recent interview with Sky Sport Italia. “There are only a few weeks left until the season concludes, and then we will see what happens.”