Maresca’s return to Manchester City
Manchester City has officially appointed Enzo Maresca as its new manager. This marks Maresca’s third tenure at the club, and he arrives with considerable experience. He has signed a three-year contract, which extends until summer 2029.
Maresca expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating that Manchester City is a club he knows well and considers it a brilliant opportunity to manage the team. He highlighted the club’s innovative and purposeful approach, describing it as a dream situation for a manager, providing the consistency needed for effective work. He also acknowledged the demands and expectations associated with the club.
The Manchester City Chairman, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, believes that Maresca and the club are a perfect match. He noted Maresca’s consistent pursuit of challenges and success in his managerial career, bringing a personality, passion, and intelligence that align with the club’s needs. Al Mubarak views Maresca’s return as a natural progression for both parties.
Chief Executive Officer Ferran Soriano added that Maresca was the standout candidate. Soriano highlighted Maresca’s personality and vision for football, describing him as a man of integrity, charisma, and passion. He also mentioned Maresca’s previous successes at Chelsea and Leicester, as well as his track record with City’s EDS team and his contribution to the historic Treble season.
Departure from Chelsea
Chelsea FC issued a statement regarding Maresca’s departure, acknowledging that the 2025/26 season was disappointing for the club and its supporters. A significant factor was the disruption caused by changes to the Head Coach position during the Christmas period. The club explained that their former Head Coach left on January 1, 2026.
In autumn of the previous year, Chelsea was informed by Maresca that there might be an opportunity for him to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. It became evident to Chelsea that Maresca had a strong desire to pursue this opportunity, despite being under a long-term contract that he did not have the right to terminate.
In December 2025, Maresca unexpectedly resigned from his position. Chelsea felt let down, believing his focus had shifted to another club and opportunity, despite having joined Chelsea the year before. The club stated that no club wishes to change its head coach mid-season, but given Maresca’s decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities, they had no choice but to accept his resignation to protect the players, supporters, and the club’s integrity.
A confidential settlement has been reached with Manchester City, which includes the payment of compensation. Additionally, a confidential settlement was reached with Maresca, under which he will pay compensation to Chelsea. Looking ahead, Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso as manager, who they describe as having an exceptional football mind and high integrity, possessing the attributes to deliver success.
Comments from supporters indicated a sense of betrayal following Maresca’s departure from Chelsea. One fan described his exit as derailing an already difficult season, while another expressed hope that he would fail at Manchester City, citing his departure when circumstances became challenging.
Maresca is eager to begin coaching the players at Manchester City, aiming for the team to win, play good football, and embrace the pressure of representing the club.
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Source: chelseafc.com
