Enzo Maresca is set to take over as Manchester City manager, according to multiple reports, as Pep Guardiola prepares to leave the Etihad after a decade in charge.

The Enzo Maresca Manchester City move would mark one of the biggest coaching changes in recent Premier League history. However, City had not published an official appointment statement by Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

Maresca set to replace Guardiola at City

Maresca is poised to become Manchester City’s next manager after reports said Guardiola will leave at the end of the season. The Guardian reported on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, that City’s succession plan had turned towards the Italian coach.

The Enzo Maresca Manchester City link carries weight because of his history at the club. Manchester City previously confirmed that Maresca led their Elite Development Squad to the Premier League 2 title in the 2020/21 season. He later returned to the club as part of Guardiola’s first-team coaching staff.

City also confirmed in 2023 that Maresca left his first-team coaching role to become Leicester City manager. At the time, the club said his move to Leicester was “a significant chapter in his coaching development”.

Guardiola exit would end a major era

Guardiola’s expected departure would close a defining period at Manchester City. He has led the club through a trophy-laden era and reshaped English football with his possession-based style.

Even so, Guardiola has not publicly confirmed the timing of his exit. The Guardian reported that he declined to confirm the reports after City’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth and said any decision would first be discussed with chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak and chief executive Ferran Soriano.

That means the Enzo Maresca Manchester City appointment remains a reported succession move until City publish a formal statement. Manchester City’s official website, checked on 20 May 2026, showed recent club news but no official announcement naming Maresca as manager.

Why Maresca fits City’s succession plan

Maresca’s City background makes him a familiar candidate. He worked inside Guardiola’s football structure and helped develop young players before moving into senior coaching roles.

Reports have also pointed to his tactical links with Guardiola. The Times described Maresca as a coach shaped by positional play, structure and possession football, while noting that he served as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s 2023 Treble-winning season.

For City, that continuity may matter. Replacing Guardiola will require more than a new face in the dugout. It will also require a coach who understands the club’s playing model and dressing-room standards.

Responses and reactions

Guardiola has not issued a farewell statement. He has instead said discussions about his future would take place with City’s senior leadership, according to The Guardian.