Enzo Maresca targets Manchester City job as Pep Guardiola successor
Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has declared he is ready to return to the dugout amid speculation linking him with replacing Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The 46-year-old has been out of work since departing Stamford Bridge in January following a behind-the-scenes fallout.
Despite Guardiola remaining under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2027, the Premier League champions are reportedly formulating contingency plans.
A familiar face in Manchester
The Italian tactician is well-acquainted with the blue half of Manchester.
He previously guided the club’s under-21 side to their first Premier League 2 title during the 2020-21 campaign.
Following a brief stint in charge of Parma, the former Juventus midfielder returned to serve on Guardiola’s coaching staff as City secured the league title in 2023.
Ready for the next chapter
Speaking to Sky Italia, the former Leicester City boss expressed his eagerness to resume his managerial career.
“I feel ready for the next chapter, that is the most important thing,” he said.
When pressed specifically on the prospect of taking the reins at City, he refused to dismiss the possibility.
“What matters, regardless of the club, is being ready,” he replied.
“There are only a few weeks left until the end of the season, then we’ll see what happens.”
Chelsea success and departure
The highly-rated coach claimed two trophies during an 18-month spell in west London, notably securing the Club World Cup.
His debut season also yielded Champions League qualification and a Conference League triumph before a congested fixture list took its toll.
A subsequent run of two wins in nine matches, combined with off-field disagreements, resulted in a mutual parting of ways.
Maresca is now attracting interest from his homeland, with Serie A sides Napoli and Roma reportedly monitoring his situation.
However, Guardiola recently suggested he intends to remain in England, citing an incredible environment at his current club.