Negotiations Over Enzo Maresca’s Move To Manchester City Hit Rock Amid Compensation Dispute.

 

The prospective successor to Pep Guardiola faces delays as Chelsea demand financial settlement

Negotiations over Enzo Maresca’s potential appointment as Manchester City’s next manager have hit a roadblock, with Chelsea insisting on compensation before the Italian can move to the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola confirmed on May 22 that he will step down after a decade of highly successful leadership at City, prompting the club to identify Maresca as their top candidate to lead the team into a new era.

However, talks between the two clubs have stalled. Chelsea argue that, despite Maresca leaving Stamford Bridge only months ago, his contract — which runs until 2029 — entitles them to a financial settlement. The Premier League side is reportedly reviewing its legal position while discussions continue.

A Chelsea insider told reporters that the club’s position is firm: “Maresca’s contract status means there is an obligation for compensation to be agreed before any appointment can proceed.”

Manchester City, meanwhile, are keen to secure an agreement promptly as they prepare for life after Guardiola. Sources indicate that disagreements over valuation and timing have slowed progress, leaving the managerial succession plan in limbo.

Maresca, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s historic Treble-winning 2022–23 season, is reportedly open to returning to the club. He also spent time in City’s coaching setup before moving into senior managerial roles.

The Italian coach went on to manage Leicester City, guiding them back to the Premier League, and later had a brief but successful stint at Chelsea, where he won both the Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League.

As talks continue, the timeline for Maresca’s potential move remains uncertain, with compensation now the key sticking point in finalizing the deal.