Romano clarifies Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City standing after Chelsea departure

Enzo Maresca remains a highly respected figure within Manchester City’s hierarchy despite his recent exit from Chelsea on New Year’s Day, according to fresh reports.

The Italian coach was dismissed by Chelsea following weeks of intense speculation surrounding his position at Stamford Bridge, with sources pointing to a breakdown in relations between the 45-year-old and senior club executives in west London.

Maresca, who previously managed Leicester City and worked closely under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, had publicly questioned the level of backing he received during a difficult festive run of results. His comments were widely interpreted as a direct critique of Chelsea’s sporting structure, accelerating an already tense situation behind the scenes.

At the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s leadership — spearheaded by director of football Hugo Viana — are understood to be monitoring the managerial landscape as part of long-term succession planning. While Pep Guardiola remains under contract until the summer of 2027, City are keen to ensure continuity when the time eventually comes for their most successful manager to step aside.

Guardiola has firmly dismissed suggestions of an imminent departure and continues to focus entirely on the current campaign. Since replacing Manuel Pellegrini in 2016, the Catalan has delivered an era-defining spell at the club, collecting six Premier League titles, a historic UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023, and a host of domestic honours.

Now more than a decade into Guardiola’s tenure, City are navigating a transitional phase following the arrival of Hugo Viana last summer, who replaced long-serving sporting director Txiki Begiristain. Strategic planning has become a priority as the club looks to safeguard stability beyond Guardiola’s eventual exit.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Enzo Maresca continues to feature on Manchester City’s shortlist of potential future managers and remains very highly regarded by decision-makers at the Etihad Stadium. However, the report makes clear that there is no active agreement or immediate move under consideration.

Guardiola, for his part, has not taken any steps towards clarifying his long-term future beyond his existing contract and remains fully committed to competing on all fronts this season. Maresca is also said to hold significant respect for his former mentor and colleague.

On the pitch, City’s momentum briefly stalled on New Year’s Day as Sunderland held the reigning champions to a goalless draw at the Stadium of Light, ending an eight-game winning streak and leaving Guardiola’s side four points adrift of league leaders Arsenal.

Despite his abrupt Chelsea exit, Maresca’s reputation remains strong following notable successes in 2025, including victories in the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements have only strengthened perceptions of him as a credible long-term successor to Guardiola when the time eventually arrives.

Conclusion

While there is no immediate change planned in Manchester City’s dugout, Enzo Maresca’s standing within the club highlights the importance of long-term vision at the Etihad Stadium. With Guardiola still fully in control and focused on the present, City’s quiet succession planning reflects a desire for continuity rather than urgency — and Maresca remains firmly part of that future conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Enzo Maresca set to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City?

No. While Maresca is admired by Manchester City officials, there is no agreement or immediate plan for him to replace Guardiola.

Why are Manchester City considering future managerial options?

With Guardiola under contract until 2027, City are engaging in responsible long-term planning to ensure stability when a transition eventually occurs.

What led to Maresca’s exit from Chelsea?

Maresca’s departure followed a breakdown in relations with Chelsea’s hierarchy, compounded by public comments questioning the club’s support during a poor run of results.

Does Guardiola intend to leave Manchester City soon?

No. Guardiola has dismissed exit rumours and remains fully committed to Manchester City and the ongoing season.