Manchester City have confirmed Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola’s successor on a three-year contract. Chelsea released a statement criticising their former head coach and confirming compensation arrangements.
Manchester City announced the appointment of Enzo Maresca on Monday. The Italian returns to the club for a third spell after previously serving as coach of the Elite Development Squad and as an assistant to Guardiola.
Maresca resigned from Chelsea on 1 January 2026. Chelsea stated that he had informed the club in autumn 2025 of a potential opportunity to succeed Guardiola and described his departure as abrupt.
City will pay Chelsea over £17 million in compensation. Maresca has also agreed to pay compensation to his former club under a confidential settlement.
Chelsea appointed Xabi Alonso as their new manager with his contract starting on Wednesday. Maresca’s first match could be against Inter in Hong Kong on 1 August.
