Manchester City are edging closer to appointing former assistant Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola’s successor, although negotiations with Chelsea over compensation remain ongoing.
Guardiola confirmed on 22 May that he would step down after a decade in charge at the Etihad Stadium, bringing an end to one of the most successful managerial eras in football. Maresca quickly emerged as City’s preferred candidate and discussions between the clubs have now reached an advanced stage.
Chelsea believe they are entitled to compensation because Maresca departed Stamford Bridge only six months ago despite being under contract until 2029. Senior representatives from both clubs are currently working to agree a settlement, although the final figure and timeline remain unresolved.
Maresca enjoyed notable success during his spell at Chelsea, leading the club to victories in the Club World Cup and Conference League before leaving in January. The Italian is understood to be eager to return to Manchester City, where he previously worked alongside Guardiola during the club’s Treble-winning 2022-23 campaign.
His departure from Chelsea followed a difficult period behind the scenes. Sources indicate relations between Maresca and the club’s ownership became increasingly strained, with disagreements reportedly emerging over transfer strategy, medical department matters and team selection decisions. Chelsea had also become aware of City’s interest in Maresca months before his exit.
Despite those tensions, Maresca retained strong support from many players and remained respected by club officials for his work on the training ground. Chelsea believe the disruption caused by his departure contributed significantly to their decline in form and failure to secure European qualification.
Before joining Chelsea, Maresca guided Leicester City back to the Premier League in his only season at the club. He had also been open to discussing a contract extension earlier in the campaign amid interest from Italian giants Juventus.
Meanwhile, City continue their efforts to strengthen the squad ahead of a new era. The club recently saw an opening offer rejected for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson but remain determined to complete a deal.
The 23-year-old England international has become City’s top midfield target following captain Bernardo Silva’s departure. Club officials are expected to return with an improved bid and are prepared to commit a substantial fee to secure his signature.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is reportedly demanding a figure higher than the £105 million Arsenal paid for Declan Rice in 2023, potentially making Anderson the most expensive British player in history.
Currently away with England at the World Cup, Anderson has been granted permission to handle transfer discussions during the tournament as long as it does not disrupt squad preparations. The midfielder is believed to favour a move to Manchester City despite interest from Manchester United.