[UPDATED] Manchester City Appoint Enzo Maresca as New Manager

Manchester City have confirmed the appointment of Italian coach Enzo Maresca as their new manager, succeeding Pep Guardiola.

The 46-year-old signed a three-year contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2029.

Speaking after his appointment on Monday, Maresca described the opportunity to lead City as a dream come true.

“Manchester City is a club I know very well, and having the opportunity to manage this team is something I’m incredibly proud of,” he said.

“City is an exceptionally well-run football club. Everything is innovative, carefully planned and purposeful. For any manager, that creates the ideal environment to succeed and provides the consistency needed to perform at the highest level.”

Maresca said his return marks a third spell at the club, having previously served as Guardiola’s assistant and also managed City’s Elite Development Squad.

“I know this club, I understand the demands, and I’m fully aware of the expectations. The quality of the people working here is what makes Manchester City so special, and I appreciate the faith the club has shown in me.

“I can’t wait to begin working with the players. I want us to win trophies, play exciting football and embrace the responsibility that comes with representing Manchester City.”

Maresca had long been regarded as the leading candidate to replace Guardiola after reports emerged that the Spaniard would step down at the end of the season.

However, his appointment was delayed as Chelsea negotiated a reported £17 million ($22 million) compensation package. The Italian was contracted to the London club until 2029 before leaving in January.

Chelsea also released a statement following City’s announcement, revealing that Maresca had informed the club earlier in the season that he could have the opportunity to succeed Guardiola.

“In December 2025, our head coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned from his position. Obviously, we felt let down,” the club said.

Tasked With Returning City to the Top

Maresca’s immediate challenge will be to restore Manchester City to the summit of English football after the club endured two seasons without winning the Premier League title.

The Italian is no stranger to success at the Etihad, having served as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022–23 campaign when City secured a historic Premier League, UEFA Champions League and FA Cup treble.

He also guided City’s Elite Development Squad to the Premier League 2 title during the 2020–21 season, further strengthening his ties with the club.

City will now hope Maresca can build on that experience as he begins a new chapter in charge of the Premier League champions.