Manchester City in talks with Enzo Maresca following Guardiola exit

Manchester City have accelerated their search for a new manager following the departure of Pep Guardiola. The club is currently in discussions with Enzo Maresca, who is familiar with the Etihad Stadium environment having served as an assistant during the 2022-23 campaign.

Maresca brings experience from his time managing Leicester City and his recent stint at Chelsea. While contract terms are still being finalised, a resolution is expected soon, though the move will require significant compensation.

Pundit Paul Merson has expressed confidence in the potential hire:

I liked him at Chelsea. I thought he was a good manager. He's going into Man City, he's been there before, he's worked in the Premier League before. He knows some of the players at City. I think he ticks every box. Paul Merson

The managerial search coincides with a major shake-up in the backroom staff. Manchester City have confirmed the departures of five key personnel, including Pep Lijnders, Kolo Toure, fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura, operations figure Manel Estiarte, and goalkeeping head Xabi Mancisidor. These exits follow a challenging season where the club finished without the Premier League title, which went to Arsenal, and suffered an early exit from the Champions League.

Guardiola is now set for a break from football, while the club works to conclude legal arrangements with Chelsea to officially announce their new manager.