A BBC report has suggested that former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca will succeed him after his exit at the end of the campaign.

This comes after the British media company reported on Monday, May 18, that the long-time Man City boss will part ways with the Premier League giants after this Sunday's home game against Aston Villa at Etihad Stadium, their final game of the season.

According to reports, former Chelsea head coach Maresca has thrived as the frontrunner in the race for a new coach to replace the legendary Spaniard for the 2026-27 season.

Engagements are already underway as Man City is reported to have been preparing for Pep’s exit for about 6 months now.

Maresca has reportedly shown interest in the job, and talks are already at the advanced stage. He will be announced soon after talks are finalised as Guardiola's successor in due course.

Guardiola said previously: "One of the best managers in the world, Enzo Maresca, I know him quite well, but the job he has done at Chelsea does not get enough credit.

"Winning the Club World Cup, Conference League, and qualification for the Champions League in a league that is so tough with a young team. It is exceptional."

About Maresca

Enzo Maresca is a 46-year-old Italian coach and former professional midfielder. During his playing career, he represented clubs such as Juventus, Sevilla, and Olympiacos, gaining a reputation for his tactical intelligence on the pitch.

After retiring, Maresca transitioned into coaching and began his managerial journey with Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad in 2020, where he guided them to the Premier League 2 title. He later took charge of Parma in 2021 before returning to City as Pep Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022–23 season, a campaign that culminated in the club’s historic treble.

Maresca then moved into senior management roles, leading Leicester City to Championship victory and promotion, before joining Chelsea. At Stamford Bridge, he added the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup to his résumé before departing in January 2026.

Maresca’s connection with Pep Guardiola is both professional and philosophical. As Guardiola’s assistant during the treble-winning season, he played a crucial role in implementing the tactical principles that define Pep’s style, particularly positional play and high pressing.

Guardiola himself praised Maresca as “one of the best managers in the world,” a testament to the Italian’s influence and ability. Much like Mikel Arteta before him, Maresca is seen as a natural heir to Guardiola’s footballing philosophy, blending his own ideas with Pep’s blueprint for success.

Transition at Manchester City

After a decade of dominance, Pep Guardiola is stepping down from Manchester City, leaving behind a legacy of 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2023 treble. His departure marks the end of an era, but the club has moved swiftly to secure continuity.

Maresca has reportedly reached a verbal agreement with City on a three-year contract, positioning him as Guardiola’s successor. Official confirmation is expected after City’s final game of the season against Aston Villa. While other names, such as Vincent Kompany, were considered, Maresca’s prior ties to the club and Guardiola’s endorsement made him the clear favourite to take the reins.