Manchester City have officially entered a new era after appointing Italian coach Enzo Maresca as the club’s new manager following Pep Guardiola’s departure.
According to reports, Maresca has signed a three-year contract with the Premier League champions, ending weeks of speculation over who would replace Guardiola after his emotional exit from the Etihad.
The appointment comes shortly after Guardiola managed his final game for Manchester City, bringing an end to one of the most successful eras in English football history.
His farewell match ended in disappointment as City suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the development on Tuesday, revealing that Maresca’s agreement with Manchester City will run until June 2029.
“Enzo Maresca has already signed a three-year deal as Manchester City’s new manager… Here we go, 100% confirmed,” Romano posted on X.
Maresca, who previously managed Chelsea and Leicester City, has been without a club since leaving Stamford Bridge earlier this year.
Reports claim the 46-year-old rejected several offers from clubs across Europe while waiting for the opportunity to return to Manchester City.
The Italian tactician is already familiar with the club’s system and philosophy, having previously worked as coach of Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad before later serving as Guardiola’s assistant during the club’s historic treble-winning campaign.
Sources close to the club believe City’s hierarchy sees Maresca as the perfect candidate to continue Guardiola’s football philosophy while also rebuilding and refreshing the squad ahead of a new season.
The new manager is also expected to play a major role in the club’s transfer activities this summer as preparations begin for the next chapter at the Etihad Stadium.
The announcement has already sparked massive reactions among football fans online, with many eager to see whether Maresca can successfully fill Guardiola’s shoes at Manchester City.
Source: Fabrizio Romano and reports surrounding Manchester City’s managerial appointment.
