Manchester City are in advanced discussions with Enzo Maresca over appointing the Italian as their new head coach, with a deal widely anticipated to be concluded within days.

Contrary to some reports, not all the terms of a proposed three-year contract have been agreed. Negotiations are continuing, with the remaining sticking points understood to centre on the timeline of his appointment, the composition of his backroom staff, and various finer details.

Guardiola's support team disperses

City confirmed on Tuesday that two more members of Pep Guardiola's coaching staff — Pep Ljinders and Kolo Toure — are departing the Etihad Stadium, joining Lorenzo Buenaventura, Manel Estiarte, and Xabi Mancisidor in leaving the club.

The departures mark a significant clearing of the decks as Manchester City prepare for life beyond Guardiola, the manager who transformed the club into a dominant force in English and European football.

Legal complication shadows the deal

Maresca parted ways with Chelsea in acrimonious circumstances in January 2026, with three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea's legal team are expected to scrutinise his next move closely, with compensation potentially due to the London club.

According to reports, Maresca informed Chelsea last autumn that Manchester City had registered interest in eventually appointing him as Guardiola's successor — interest that dated back to his time as Guardiola's assistant coach during the 2022/23 season, when City claimed a historic treble.

Merson backs the appointment

Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson gave the potential appointment his backing, pointing to Maresca's familiarity with both the Premier League and Manchester City.