Enzo Maresca Agrees Principle Deal to Replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City for 2026-27 Season

Manchester City have identified Enzo Maresca as their preferred managerial successor to Pep Guardiola, with the Italian reportedly having agreed terms in principle to take charge ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.

According to Italian transfer expert Nicolò Schira, Maresca has reached an agreement with the club for a contract running until 2028, with an option to extend by a further year through to 2029. The deal, however, remains contingent on Guardiola confirming his departure at the end of the current campaign.

Posting on X on 12 May 2026, Schira stated: “Enzo Maresca is still waiting for Pep Guardiola’s final decision. If Guardiola leaves Manchester City at the end of the season, Maresca will be the replacement on MCFC’s bench.”

Maresca, 45, has drawn considerable attention for his tactical acumen and man-management capabilities since transitioning into senior management. He previously managed Leicester City, guiding them back to the Premier League, before taking charge of Chelsea ahead of the 2024-25 season.

Should Guardiola confirm his exit, he will leave behind one of the most decorated managerial tenures in English football history. During his time at the Etihad Stadium, the Spanish coach has won six Premier League titles, three FA Cups — including a 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Wembley — four Carabao Cups, one UEFA Champions League title, and multiple Community Shields.

Guardiola joined Manchester City in 2016 and has consistently reshaped the club’s standing both domestically and in Europe. His side’s 2022-23 treble-winning campaign remains among the most celebrated achievements in the club’s history.

Maresca’s potential appointment would mark a significant transition for a club accustomed to sustained success at the highest level. His tactical profile — built around possession-based, positionally structured football — draws comparisons to the Guardiola model, which may have factored into City’s decision to pursue him as their top candidate.

No official confirmation has been issued by Manchester City regarding either Guardiola’s departure or Maresca’s appointment, and both remain unconfirmed at this stage. The club’s final Premier League fixtures and any potential European commitments are expected to conclude before any formal announcement is made.