By Sipho Ndlovu · Football Writer · June 22, 2026Manchester City is reportedly nearing the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new manager, with an agreement on compensation with Chelsea said to be close. Maresca is expected to succeed Pep Guardiola, who announced his departure from City after a decade with the club.
Sources indicate that a deal to appoint the 46-year-old Maresca is close to being finalised. City and Chelsea have been in negotiations regarding a compensation package. One report suggests the compensation could be well over £10m, while another indicates it could exceed £17m (€20m).
Chelsea believes they are due compensation because Maresca was under contract with them until 2029 before his departure in January. The club had been exploring legal options concerning his exit. Maresca was identified by City as the primary candidate to replace Guardiola.
Maresca’s History with City and Chelsea
Maresca previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s treble-winning season in 2023. He also led the club’s Elite Development Squad to the Premier League 2 title in the 2020/21 season. His familiarity with City’s operations is seen as a beneficial factor for a seamless transition.
Before his potential return to City, Maresca was the head coach at Chelsea. He led the Blues to the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup titles during his one full season in charge. He left Chelsea on New Year’s Day by mutual consent, having been with the club for a period where he had three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.
During his tenure at Chelsea, the team was positioned fifth in the Premier League table on January 1, which was five places higher than their final tenth-place finish. Chelsea had reportedly paid Leicester £8m in compensation to secure Maresca’s release as manager two years prior to his move to Stamford Bridge.
Reports suggest that Chelsea believes Maresca breached his contract by engaging in discussions with other clubs, including City and Napoli, while still managing Chelsea. This claim, that Maresca informed Chelsea of approaches from City and Napoli last winter, has not been disputed.
Chelsea sources have indicated they possess evidence to report City to the Premier League for an alleged illegal approach to Maresca. However, they currently have no plans to do so and are continuing negotiations with City to reach an amicable agreement. There has also been consideration by Chelsea to pursue a separate legal claim against Maresca for alleged breach of contract, which would likely be dropped if an agreement is reached with City.
Impact on Player Futures and Pre-season Preparations
The appointment of Maresca comes at a time when some City players, not involved in World Cup action, are expected to return for pre-season training in mid-July. The delay in confirming a new manager has left some players in a state of uncertainty regarding their futures, as they have yet to meet the new boss for discussions.
Despite this, transfer activities have continued in the background. City has reportedly made bids for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, with two bids already rejected. Another offer is anticipated, and it is expected that any pursuit of the England international would have Maresca’s approval, as the club looks to replace departing captain Bernardo Silva.
City is considered to have a compelling proposition for players, irrespective of the head coach, offering a clear opportunity for immediate silverware and state-of-the-art facilities. Guardiola departed the Etihad at the end of the 2025/26 season after a decade, during which City secured 17 major trophies.
City and Chelsea both declined to comment on the ongoing negotiations.
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Source: bbc.com
