Manchester City appear to have already found the man responsible for replacing Pep Guardiola following one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. According to Fabrizio Romano, Enzo Maresca has reached an agreement to become the new manager of the English champions on a three-year deal.

The City hierarchy moved quickly after Guardiola’s departure at the end of the season was confirmed. Maresca’s profile fully convinced club executives because of his deep understanding of the organization and the experience he has gained throughout his managerial career.

The Italian coach previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, allowing him to become deeply familiar with the tactical philosophy that transformed the club into one of Europe’s dominant forces.

Guardiola Leaves Behind a Historic Legacy

The departure of Pep Guardiola marks the end of a remarkable era at Manchester City. During his ten seasons at the Etihad Stadium, the Spanish manager captured 20 trophies, including multiple Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and several domestic cups.

Even in his final campaign, Guardiola managed to secure another domestic double, further cementing his legendary status at the club.

Before officially stepping away, Guardiola also delivered a strong message of support for whoever would replace him. The Spanish coach emphasized that Manchester City always backs its managers and encouraged his successor to remain faithful to his football ideas.

The strong relationship between Guardiola and Maresca could also play a major role in the transition, with both managers sharing a similar vision centered around possession football and tactical control.

Immediate Pressure Awaits Maresca

Although he will inherit one of the strongest squads in world football, the challenge facing Maresca will be enormous. Manchester City are already undergoing a gradual squad regeneration process and recently added several talented young players, including Rayan Cherki, Abdukodir Khusanov, Marc Guehi, and Antoine Semenyo.

In addition, the club is still exploring further transfer options, with Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson reportedly among the main targets heading into the summer window.

The pressure on the Italian manager will be immediate, especially after City finished runners-up during the 2025-26 campaign. Supporters expect the new coach to keep the team competing for every major trophy while successfully guiding the club into a new era following the departure of the most successful manager in its history.

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