Maresca begins work at Man City before official confirmation as Guardiola's successor

Enzo Maresca has already started work as Manchester City’s next manager, spending time at the club’s training ground this week despite his appointment not yet being formally confirmed as Pep Guardiola’s replacement.

Etihad chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak is still finalising a compensation deal with Chelsea, who sacked Maresca in January, before the Italian’s arrival can be made official. Nevertheless, Maresca has wasted no time, immersing himself in data on every member of his new squad to shape pre-season training sessions when players return next month. Some squad members will report back later than others due to their involvement in the World Cup in North America.

Maresca has agreed a three-year deal at the Etihad and is expected to meet senior club figures next week to discuss expectations for the role. City had identified Maresca as their target six months ago, once it became clear he would be available following his Chelsea dismissal.

The scale of the challenge is considerable. Guardiola, who announced his decision to leave last summer — keeping it private from all but a small inner circle — won 20 trophies during his decade in charge, including the historic Treble in 2023.

Maresca does, however, have reason for early optimism. City have agreed a British record deal to sign England midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a fee of £116 million, which could rise to £130 million, handing the incoming manager a significant addition to his squad.

The new era begins without several Guardiola stalwarts, however. Bernardo Silva departed upon the expiry of his contract and has since joined Real Madrid, while John Stones has also left the club.