According to multiple reports, Pep Guardiola is set to bring his decade-long era in Manchester City to an end on Sunday after their game against Aston Villa. Although no official statement had been issued
by the club, speculations all around are strong. Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who worked under Guardiola at City, is the frontrunner to replace the 55-year-old. Guardiola’s current contract runs until 2027 after he signed an extension in November 2024.
If the reports are confirmed, then a golden era of Manchester City would come to an end this weekend as the 55-year-old manager departs. Pep joined City in February 2016 on a three-year contract basis, replacing Manuel Pellegrini ahead of the 2016-17 season. Although his first campaign with Manchester City remained trophyless, the following years had no looking back with silverware piled in the trophy cabinet.
Pep Guardiola transformed Manchester City into a global football dynasty, winning 20 major trophies. His honours include the UEFA Champions League, a historic European Treble, a record four consecutive Premier League titles, and domestic dominance across multiple cup competitions.
Enzo Maresca emerged as a frontrunner to succeed Pep’s legacy
Pep Guardiola’s legacy in Manchester City has been an era, and to fill in his boots would be no less than a challenge. According to reports, former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been the frontrunner to take Pep’s place in City. Maresca is very familiar with the Etihad setup as he has been an integral part of Pep’s staff. The Italian managed Manchester City’s Under-21 side during the 2020-21 season before returning in 2022 as part of Guardiola’s first-team coaching staff. Maresca played a key role in the Treble-winning 2022-23 campaign.
Maresca had also left Chelsea four months ago, and is also expected to trade some big names to City from Stamford Bridge, including names like Enzo Fernandez.
Man City and Pep will be eyeing to grab the seventh Premier League title if they win both matches against Bournemouth and Ashton Villa if Arsenal bottles their game and slips.
