Enzo Maresca Set to Replace Guardiola at Manchester City, 2026

Key Points

• Enzo Maresca is the favourite to become Manchester City manager after Pep Guardiola departs at the end of the 2025–26 season
• Guardiola has not yet committed to the 2026–27 campaign, fueling speculation about his exit
• Maresca previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City before managing Leicester City, Chelsea, and West Bromwich Albion
• Chelsea mutually parted ways with Maresca on 1 January 2026 despite a contract until 2029
• West Brom fans are expected to wish Maresca well despite his departure from the club
• Betting markets place Maresca as the odds-on favourite to succeed Guardiola
• Other contenders include Luis Enrique (PSG) and Xabi Alonso (former Real Madrid boss), but Maresca leads the field
• Maresca, aged 46, is said to want the Manchester City role and is expected to be confirmed soon

Manchester City FC(Manchester Mirror)May 19, 2026 – Manchester City are poised to appoint former West Bromwich Albion and Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca as their next head coach, as legendary boss Pep Guardiola prepares to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the current season. As reported by Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian, Maresca stands out as the primary candidate to step into the managerial role should Guardiola decide to conclude his tenure.

The 46-year-old Italian, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, is deemed the next in line for the soon-to-be vacant position. According to multiple sources, productive discussions have already taken place regarding the possibility of appointing the former assistant as Guardiola’s successor. Maresca wants the job and is expected to be formally confirmed in due course, according to MyJoyOnline.

Guardiola’s contract situation remains unresolved for the 2026–27 campaign, with the Catalan coach yet to commit his future to the club. This uncertainty has accelerated speculation about Maresca’s imminent appointment, with early betting markets reflecting strong confidence in his candidacy.

What Is Enzo Maresca’s Connection to West Bromwich Albion and How Do Fans View His Move?

Maresca’s link to West Bromwich Albion stems from his earlier managerial tenure at the West Midlands club, where he developed a reputation for tactical discipline and player development. As reported by West Brom News, “Former West Brom man Enzo Maresca is set to take over at Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola reportedly ready to leave at the end of the season”. West Brom supporters, despite his departure, are expected to wish him well in his new challenge, recognising his contributions during his time at the club.

Maresca himself has previously acknowledged the strong bond with Albion fans. In a 2021 feature on Manchester City’s official website, he stated:

“I still receive cards from West Brom fans – that was for me, still a big thing. But I think in these terms, English fans in general, they recognise a lot”. This sentiment underscores the mutual respect between Maresca and the club’s support base.

His managerial journey includes stints at Leicester City, where he won the EFL Championship in 2023–24, and Chelsea, where he was appointed in July 2024 but mutually left on 1 January 2026 after 18 months due to a run of poor results. Despite the abrupt exit from Chelsea, Maresca’s reputation remains strong among elite clubs, particularly Manchester City.

Why Is Enzo Maresca Considered the Leading Contender Over Other High-Profile Managers?

Maresca’s familiarity with Manchester City’s philosophy, culture, and playing style makes him a natural successor. As noted by Football Insider 247, chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak appears willing to “keep it in the family” by appointing a Guardiola disciple. Maresca’s time as Pep’s assistant gave him deep insight into the club’s tactical systems, recruitment strategies, and internal operations.

While other top managers remain in contention, the odds strongly favour Maresca. PSG manager Luis Enrique and former Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso are among the contenders, but bookmakers view Maresca as a “nailed-on choice” to replace Guardiola. Early in April 2026, betting odds also tumbled briefly on Manchester City legend Vincent Kompany, who is currently managing Bayern Munich, but Maresca remains the frontrunner.

According to beIN Sports, Maresca’s tactical flexibility, experience in English football, and proven track record in the Championship and Premier League position him uniquely for the role. His ability to integrate young players and maintain possession-based football aligns with City’s long-term vision.

What Does Maresca’s Potential Appointment Mean for Manchester City’s Tactical Direction?

Maresca’s playing style emphasises controlled possession, positional fluidity, and high pressing – core components of Guardiola’s system. His appointment suggests continuity rather than revolution. As reported by MyJoyOnline,

“Enzo Maresca is set to replace Pep Guardiola as Manchester City manager before next season”.

This continuity could ease the transition for players accustomed to City’s intricate tactical demands.

Maresca’s success at Leicester, where he implemented a high-intensity, pressing-driven system to secure promotion and Championship glory, demonstrates his capacity to adapt elite concepts to different squads. At Chelsea, despite a short tenure, he experimented with new formations and youth integration, hinting at his willingness to evolve tactics.

Guardiola’s final season may include gradual handover planning, allowing Maresca to shadow key decisions and build relationships with squad members. This approach mirrors City’s previous successful transitions, ensuring stability in performance and results.

Background: Enzo Maresca’s Managerial Journey and Path to Manchester City

Enzo Maresca began his coaching career in Italy before joining Manchester City’s academy in 2020 as an assistant coach under Pep Guardiola. In 2022, he left City to become head coach of Parma, then moved to Leicester City in June 2023, where he led the club to the 2023–24 Championship title. His success at Leicester earned him the Chelsea head coach role in July 2024, replacing Graham Potter.

At Chelsea, Maresca faced intense pressure amid inconsistent results. On 1 January 2026, Chelsea announced they had mutually parted ways with him despite a contract running until June 2029. Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior emerged as the leading candidate for the Chelsea role following Maresca’s exit.

Maresca’s time at West Bromwich Albion, though not detailed in recent reports, remains a significant chapter in his English managerial career, earning him lasting goodwill among Albion supporters. His return to elite management via Manchester City marks a full-circle moment in his relationship with Guardiola and City’s football philosophy.

Prediction: How This Development Could affect West Bromwich Albion Fans and Manchester City Supporters

For West Bromwich Albion fans, Maresca’s ascent to Manchester City represents both pride and nostalgia. Supporters are likely to view his appointment positively, recognising his growth from Championship success to Premier League prominence. As reported by West Brom News, “West Brom fans will wish him well”. This sentiment may strengthen the bond between the clubs and enhance West Brom’s reputation for developing credible Premier League managers.

For Manchester City supporters, Maresca’s appointment offers reassurance amidst uncertainty surrounding Guardiola’s departure. Fans can expect tactical continuity, sustained dominance in domestic competitions, and maintained high standards in European pursuits. However, the transition may also bring scrutiny, as replacing one of football’s greatest managers will inevitably invite comparisons. If Maresca replicates Guardiola’s winning culture, City’s fanbase may embrace him quickly; if not, pressure could mount rapidly.

Overall, Maresca’s expected appointment signals a new era built on familiarity, tactical sophistication, and strategic continuity – a calculated move designed to preserve Manchester City’s elite status while integrating fresh leadership.