Manchester City are moving closer to appointing Enzo Maresca as their new manager, with negotiations ongoing over a compensation package with Chelsea.

According to reports from Sky Sports, discussions between both clubs have reached an advanced stage, with lawyers representing City and Chelsea currently working through the legal details of the agreement.

The situation has become more complex because Maresca still had three-and-a-half years remaining on his Chelsea contract when he left the club in January. As a result, Manchester City must agree on compensation before officially confirming his appointment.

City Hopeful of Swift Resolution

Manchester City are reportedly optimistic that a deal can be completed this week as they accelerate plans for life after Pep Guardiola.

While Maresca's proposed three-year contract is yet to be fully finalized, sources indicate that the remaining discussions focus on key details such as:

The timeline for his official appointment
The composition of his coaching staff
Contractual and administrative arrangements

Once those issues are resolved, City are expected to formally announce the Italian as Guardiola's successor.

A Familiar Face Returns

Maresca is no stranger to the Etihad Stadium.

The Italian previously served as Guardiola's assistant during the historic 2022/23 campaign, helping City secure a famous treble that included the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League.

His knowledge of the club's philosophy and playing style is believed to be one of the major reasons City have identified him as their preferred candidate.

Reports also suggest that Chelsea were informed as early as last autumn that Maresca had attracted interest from Manchester City regarding a future succession plan once Guardiola decided to step away.

A New Chapter for Manchester City

The appointment would signal the beginning of a new era for Manchester City after one of the most successful managerial reigns in football history.

Guardiola transformed City into a dominant force both domestically and in Europe, setting standards that any successor will find difficult to match.

Maresca's challenge will be maintaining that winning culture while gradually establishing his own identity.

Opinion: A Logical Choice, But a Huge Test Awaits

From Manchester City's perspective, Enzo Maresca appears to be one of the safest and most logical appointments available.

He understands the club's structure, knows the expectations, and has already worked closely with Guardiola. That familiarity should make the transition smoother than bringing in an outsider with a completely different philosophy.

However, replacing Guardiola is arguably one of the toughest jobs in world football.

Successors often struggle under the weight of expectations left behind by legendary managers. Maresca will not simply be judged on winning trophies—he will be measured against a manager who redefined an era at Manchester City.

The early signs suggest City are backing continuity rather than revolution. Whether that strategy delivers continued dominance remains to be seen, but the Italian is set to inherit one of the most demanding and high-profile positions in the game.