Manchester City have officially named Enzo Maresca as the club’s new manager, ending months of speculation over who would succeed legendary coach Pep Guardiola following his departure at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The Italian tactician has signed a three-year contract, marking his third spell at the Etihad Stadium after previously serving as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s historic treble-winning campaign.
Maresca Returns to Familiar Territory
Maresca’s appointment had long been anticipated after Guardiola confirmed he would leave Manchester City following an extraordinary 10-year tenure.
During his time in charge, Guardiola transformed City into one of Europe’s dominant forces, guiding the club to 20 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, and the historic 2022/23 continental treble.
Having previously worked closely with Guardiola, Maresca now steps into one of football’s most demanding managerial positions.
Speaking after his appointment, the 46-year-old expressed his excitement about returning to the club.
“Manchester City is a club I know very well, and having the opportunity to manage this team is incredibly special,” Maresca said.
He praised City’s structure, describing the club as innovative, well-organised and perfectly equipped to support long-term success.
“I know the standards, the expectations and the people here. I want us to win, play attractive football and embrace the responsibility that comes with representing Manchester City.”
Impressive Rise Through English Football
Maresca’s managerial reputation has grown rapidly over the past three seasons.
After taking charge of Leicester City in 2023, he guided the Foxes back to the Premier League at the first attempt.
His success earned him the head coach role at Chelsea, where he enjoyed an impressive spell that included winning the UEFA Conference League and lifting the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup.
Despite those achievements, his relationship with Chelsea’s hierarchy reportedly deteriorated, leading to his departure midway through the season.
His availability paved the way for Manchester City to secure one of Europe’s most highly-rated young managers.
New Era Begins at the Etihad
Maresca inherits a squad entering a new phase following Guardiola’s departure.
Manchester City have already seen experienced figures Bernardo Silva and John Stones move on, while the club is expected to complete the signing of midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest in a deal reportedly worth £116 million.
The club believes the current squad provides a strong platform for Maresca to continue competing for domestic and European honours.
City Chairman Welcomes Appointment
Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak described Maresca as the ideal candidate to lead the club into its next chapter.
He praised the Italian’s ambition, tactical intelligence and leadership qualities, adding that his football philosophy aligns closely with City’s long-term vision.
According to Al Mubarak, Maresca inherits an organisation built for sustained success, and everyone at the club is eager to see how he develops the team in the coming seasons.
