Chelsea have not commented on rumors that Manchester City are interested in appointing Enzo Maresca as their new head coach if Josep Guardiola leaves at the end of the season. There is speculation that Guardiola could bid farewell to the Etihad Stadium this summer, marking 10 years since he took charge of the Manchester club.
City are reportedly considering options for a potential replacement, with former employee Maresca high on the list. Maresca, who is currently the Chelsea manager, has previously had a relationship with City, having previously worked with the club in the Under-23s team during the 2020/21 season before taking over at Parma. After a short stint in Italy, he returned to City as Guardiola’s assistant in June 2022, returning during the triumphant 22/23 season.
City have been closely monitoring Maresca’s performances at Stamford Bridge over the past year and a half, including winning the Conference League trophy and winning the newly relaunched FIFA Club World Cup.
Guardiola himself praised Maresca earlier this month, saying: “I know Enzo Maresca very well, one of the best managers in the world, but he doesn’t get enough credit for the job he did at Chelsea.”
“It’s a very tough league for young teams, so qualifying for the Club World Cup, Conference League and Champions League is special.”
It has been a turbulent few days at Chelsea, with Maresca openly criticizing the lack of support within the club after the win against Everton. The Italian manager did not elaborate on his comments, but some club officials were reportedly surprised.
Maresca has a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge until 2029, with an option for a further year, but these comments may make more sense given the interest from City.
According to Football.London, at the end of the season, Chelsea and Maresca will hold a joint review to assess their working relationship over two seasons, in a process similar to that with manager Mauricio Pochettino, albeit only for one term.
