Enzo Maresca took over as Manchester City manager in June 2026, following Pep Guardiola's decade-long tenure marked by six Premier League titles and a Champions League victory [1, 2, 3, 4]. Maresca served as Guardiola’s assistant in the 2022-23 season and previously led City’s elite development squad, providing him with familiarity with the club’s culture and philosophy [1, 5, 3, 4].
Maresca said it is a privilege to be chosen to replace Guardiola, whom he called "the best coach in the world in the last 20 to 25 years." He added, "First of all, it’s a privilege because the club decided to go for me," emphasizing the responsibility ahead [1, 2]. He acknowledged the challenges of succeeding a long-term, trophy-winning manager, citing the difficulties faced by successors to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United and Arsène Wenger at Arsenal: "It’s a challenge. It’s nice. Also, the history of the manager with many years in the same club always struggled a little bit," he said [2].
Manchester City has had only three managers in the last 17 years: Roberto Mancini, Manuel Pellegrini, and Pep Guardiola. Maresca praised this stability and believes it will support continuity and success under his leadership: "This club has had three managers in 17 years, that's not normal and doesn't happen," he said [1, 2, 5, 3].
He indicated he does not plan to make radical changes to City's playing style and intends to follow Guardiola’s blueprint, preserving the tactical identity that brought 17 major trophies over 10 years [1, 5, 3]. Maresca said he feels at home and welcomed at the club, stating, "I feel back home. I feel very good. The feeling since day one has been brilliant. So I’m happy" [4].
One key player issue ahead is Spain’s 30-year-old midfielder Rodri, who is scheduled for back surgery on Monday, July 28, 2026, and is expected to miss the season start [2, 4]. Despite ongoing transfer speculation including interest from Real Madrid, Maresca said, "First of all, around big players there is always speculation. I’m not worried about that." He confirmed Rodri’s recovery plan: "But now, surgery on Monday, and then he needs holiday, he needs to rest, recovery, and then he will be back here with us" [2, 4].
Maresca also suggested some squad changes may occur, with possible departures including goalkeeper James Trafford and midfielder Jack Grealish [2].
Maresca’s appointment marks a new chapter for Manchester City as they prepare for the 2026-27 season under his management following Guardiola's highly successful era [1, 2, 5, 3, 4].
