Nine Manchester City players facing uncertain futures under Enzo Maresca

Manchester City are heading into one of the most consequential summers in their recent history, with Enzo Maresca inheriting a squad that requires meaningful reshaping following Pep Guardiola’s departure after more than nine years in charge.

Guardiola’s exit is compounded by the confirmed departures of Bernardo Silva and John Stones — two players who defined the club’s dominant era. Silva in particular leaves a midfield void that will be difficult to fill; his ability to operate across multiple positions made him indispensable to Guardiola’s system. Stones, meanwhile, has battled injury and fitness problems over the past two seasons, limiting his influence.

Maresca arrives having guided Leicester City to the Premier League title, but the scale of his new task is considerable. Guardiola himself, in his final post-match press conference as City manager, urged supporters to cherish the wins already secured rather than expect immediate trophy challenges — a candid acknowledgement that the transition will take time.

Among those facing uncertain futures is goalkeeper James Trafford, who has impressed enough this season to attract significant interest. City would prefer to retain him, but Trafford is unlikely to accept another campaign as second choice, and a move away appears probable.

Right-back Rico Lewis barely featured under Guardiola this season, rarely making matchday squads. At 19, he needs regular football, and clubs including Nottingham Forest have previously registered interest.

Defender Nathan Ake enters the final year of his contract. The 32-year-old Dutchman has been a reliable option when called upon — including a composed display in the Carabao Cup final win over Arsenal — but a new deal looks unlikely, and City may look to generate a transfer fee this summer.

Left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri is only a year into his City career but has found his path blocked by Nico O’Reilly, who has established himself in that position. Injury problems and an Africa Cup of Nations absence disrupted Ait-Nouri’s momentum, leaving him with a point to prove heading into pre-season.

Midfielder Mateo Kovacic has had a season severely curtailed by limited appearances, raising questions about whether he fits Maresca’s plans going forward.

The broader picture is one of a squad with genuine quality at its core but significant decisions to be made around the fringes. Several players who were unable to take their chances when given opportunities under Guardiola now face the prospect of proving themselves to an entirely new coaching staff — or finding a new club.