Enzo Maresca has been officially unveiled as Manchester City's new manager, succeeding Pep Guardiola following the latter’s decade-long tenure that secured 17 major trophies and transformed the club into a global powerhouse. The 46-year-old Italian, who previously worked closely with Guardiola as an assistant during City’s historic treble-winning 2022-23 season and managed the club’s elite development squad, acknowledges the challenge of filling his predecessor’s shoes but intends to establish his own identity at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking at his first press conference, Maresca paid tribute to former City manager Kevin Keegan, who passed away recently, and expressed his respect for Guardiola, describing him as “probably the best coach in the world over the past 20 to 25 years.” Despite their close relationship and recent discussions—he spent several hours with Guardiola just a week before his appointment—Maresca emphasized he will not simply replicate Guardiola’s methods. “Every manager is different,” he said, adding that he aims to implement his own vision and football philosophy rather than “copy and paste” from anyone else.
Maresca comes to City following managerial stints at Leicester City and Chelsea. At Leicester, he achieved promotion to the Premier League, and at Chelsea, he secured the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup titles. His departure from Chelsea in January was notably acrimonious, with the Blues releasing a statement criticizing his commitment, and City subsequently paying £17 million in compensation. Maresca addressed this period diplomatically, focusing on the present and affirming his commitment to Manchester City.
One of Maresca’s immediate tasks includes managing the futures of key players. Midfielder Rodri, who recently won the World Cup and was named player of the tournament with Spain, is set for back surgery and will miss the start of the season. Despite transfer speculation linking Rodri with Real Madrid, Maresca described him as “a top player” and an important part of the squad and leadership group. New signing Elliot Anderson, acquired for £116 million, and other prospects are expected to strengthen the team ahead of the new campaign.
The new City manager also commented on other squad members. Jack Grealish, who struggled following the 2023 treble-winning season and spent last year on loan at Everton, remains at the club “for the moment,” though Maresca did not confirm his long-term plans for the winger. Goalkeeper James Trafford, linked with Leeds United, is currently considered part of City’s goalkeeping options, though transfers could occur during the window.
Regarding the ongoing controversy surrounding Manchester City, which faces approximately 130 Premier League charges alleging financial rule breaches, Maresca expressed no concerns. He referenced the similar issues raised during the 2022-23 treble-winning season, noting that no decisive outcome has been reached, and praised the club’s structure and professionalism.
Maresca acknowledged the difficulty of following legendary managers such as Guardiola, citing the struggles experienced by Manchester United and Arsenal in the wake of Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger. However, he expressed confidence in City’s stability and organizational support, highlighting the club’s history of managerial continuity, having had only three managers since 2009.
Looking ahead, Maresca stressed his focus on day-to-day work and preparation, with success defined by winning titles but built on consistent effort. “I love to do my job, to prepare sessions, to spend time with the players,” he said. His upcoming pre-season will include a tour of Asia with several first-team stars and promising young players, setting the stage for a new chapter at Manchester City under his leadership.