Romano names leading candidate to replace Guardiola at Man City

"As speculation continues to swirl around Pep Guardiola's long-term future at Manchester City, attention is already turning toward potential successors. According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Enzo Maresca remains one of the leading candidates to step into the Etihad dugout when Guardiola eventually departs. While no immediate change is expected, City's hierarchy are understood to be quietly mapping out their next managerial era, and Maresca's name features prominently in those internal discussions."

"His most recent spell in English football came with Chelsea, where he enjoyed tangible success on the continental stage, guiding the Blues to Europa Conference League glory and securing silverware at the Club World Cup. However, despite those achievements, tensions reportedly developed between Maresca and the club's hierarchy. Differences over recruitment strategy, squad structure, and long-term planning ultimately led to a parting of ways earlier this year."

"Guardiola remains under contract, but his future has been a recurring topic of discussion across European football. The Spaniard has repeatedly spoken about the intensity of long managerial cycles and the importance of knowing when to step away. While he continues to lead City at the highest level, the club's executives are understood to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to succession planning."

Speculation over Pep Guardiola's long-term future at Manchester City has prompted quiet succession planning within the club. City executives are mapping potential managerial candidates for the next era. Enzo Maresca features prominently due to his strong tactical identity, deep understanding of positional play, and prior work within City's coaching structure under Guardiola. Maresca left Chelsea earlier this year after winning the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup, with reported tensions over recruitment, squad structure, and long-term planning contributing to his departure. Guardiola remains under contract, and the club maintains a proactive approach to future management planning.

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