Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has constantly been mentioned as a possible replacement for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The Spaniard’s future at the Etihad Stadium is far from secure, even if his current deal runs out in 2027. That may not mean that Guardiola will only depart next year, with voices growing about his possible exit at the end of the ongoing campaign.
Maresca was present at the Telenord-Gianni Di Marzio national award event today and he was asked a host of questions by Tuttomercatoweb.
When asked about his next steps, he said:
“It’s May now, and the championships are coming to an end. In the meantime, I’m resting and trying to prepare.”
Directly, Maresca was quizzed about how he would respond if Manchester City called.
He responded: “Right now, regardless of which club calls you, it’s important to feel prepared. Fortunately, there are only a few weeks left, and we’ll see what happens.”
Maresca was also asked if he would be open to a move back to Italy.
He said: “I’ve been everywhere. I enjoyed myself as a player in four different countries, and as a coach I’ve already been in two or three different countries. I adapt quite well. My last experience was in England, so let’s see what happens next.”
Things too early to call
As things stand, Guardiola’s future is very much in doubt. There is no certainty about whether he will stay or not. If he leaves, Maresca would be a definite favourite.
But if the Spaniard stays, Maresca could also end up in Italy. Napoli have been mentioned as suitors and have held initial talks and Fiorentina have also made initial attempts.
Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN
