Manchester City has zeroed in on Enzo Maresca as their sole candidate to step into the managerial hot seat whenever Pep Guardiola calls time on his reign at the Etihad.
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League champions view the Italian tactician as the ideal successor, keeping their plans tightly under wraps while the current era plays out.
Maresca himself has signaled he is chomping at the bit for a bigger challenge, declaring, “I feel ready for the next job.” The former Leicester City boss appears poised and patient, his ambitions aligned with one of football’s most demanding roles.
City considers Maresca the perfect fit to carry forward the club’s philosophy once Guardiola decides his own path. Sources indicate the hierarchy holds him in high regard, viewing him as a natural extension of the tactical blueprint that has defined their recent dominance.
This endorsement positions Maresca as the frontrunner in a high-stakes handover, should the opportunity arise.
Guardiola, whose contract runs for one more season, remains firmly in the driving seat when it comes to his future.
The legendary Spaniard will ultimately call the shots on whether he extends his stay or bids farewell after yet another chapter of unparalleled success. Until that decision lands, the club’s plans stay on hold, respecting the man who has turned Manchester City into a powerhouse.
In the meantime, Maresca continues to bide his time, waiting in the wings for the call from Manchester. With eyes fixed on the Etihad, the Italian coach keeps his options open but his focus sharp, ready to pounce if and when the opportunity knocks.

