Enzo Maresca says it’s a ‘privilege’ to follow Pep Guardiola as Man City manager

The transition at the helm of Manchester City officially entered a new phase as Enzo Maresca faced the media on Friday, 24 July 2026, for his formal unveiling as the club’s new manager. Maresca steps into the vacancy created by the departure of Pep Guardiola, who concluded a decade-long tenure that saw him secure 17 major trophies and cement his status as the most decorated figure in the club’s history.

Addressing the gravity of his appointment, the 46-year-old Italian characterized the opportunity as a privilege while acknowledging the daunting nature of succeeding a predecessor he regards as the premier coach of the last quarter-century.

"First of all, I have to say that it’s a privilege. I’ve said many times that I consider Pep probably the best coach in the world in the last 20, 25 years."

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Navigating the Shadow of Greatness

Maresca is acutely aware of the historical precedent set by clubs that have attempted to replace long-serving managers. He specifically noted the periods of instability experienced by Manchester United following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson and the difficulties faced by Arsenal after the exit of Arsène Wenger. Despite these cautionary tales, Maresca remains optimistic about his prospects, attributing his confidence to the unique institutional stability at the Etihad Stadium.

According to the new manager, the organization’s track record of maintaining continuity—having employed only three managers over the last 17 years—provides a foundation for sustained performance. This club, this organisation had three managers in 17 years. This is not normal. It doesn’t happen often, Maresca noted. He intends to preserve the strategic continuity established during the eras of Roberto Mancini, Manuel Pellegrini, and the long-serving Guardiola, whose tactical influence he seeks to maintain.

Personnel and Tactical Outlook

Maresca’s familiarity with the club’s internal structure, gained through his previous roles as an academy coach and as an assistant during the club's treble-winning season, is expected to facilitate his integration. He plans to maintain an aggressive, possession-based approach, emphasizing the control and tactical clarity that defined his recent coaching spells at Leicester City and Chelsea. Maresca opted not to dwell on these circumstances, stating only that he feels like he is back home at Manchester City.

On the pitch, the new manager is already adjusting to significant personnel challenges. Midfielder Rodri is scheduled to undergo back surgery on Monday. While transfer rumors continue to link the Spain captain and recent World Cup Golden Ball winner with a move to Real Madrid, Maresca maintained that his focus is on the player’s recovery. Every manager wants to have Rodri because he’s a top player, Maresca said. But now surgery on, I think, Monday. He needs holiday. He needs to rest. He needs to recover and then he will be back here with us.

Maresca also provided updates regarding other members of the roster:

• Jack Grealish: Maresca noted it is his duty to try to coach players under contract.
• James Trafford: The goalkeeper, who previously worked under Maresca during his time with the Under-23s, is subject to interest from other clubs, including Leeds.
• Tactical Innovation: Maresca signaled an openness to diverse tactical solutions, specifically noting the potential for utilizing Gianluigi Donnarumma’s long-range distribution to Erling Haaland as a threat to opponents, while insisting the team must develop broader combinations beyond this single approach.

What to Watch Next

As the club enters this post-Guardiola era, the following developments remain on the immediate horizon:

• Medical Timetable: The outcome of Rodri's surgery and the subsequent rehabilitation timeline will dictate the manager’s immediate squad management.