The Athletic FC Podcast Ornstein exclusive: Maresca among Man City options if Guardiola leaves
Dec 18, 2025
David Ornstein, a senior football correspondent at The Athletic, shares exclusive insights about Chelsea's Enzo Maresca being a top candidate to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, hinting at a potential exit for Guardiola after a decade of success. Simon Johnson provides the Chelsea perspective, revealing surprising reactions to Maresca's recent comments and their implications. The discussion digs into whether Maresca can handle the City job and how internal dynamics might influence his potential move.
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Maresca's City Connections Matter
- Maresca is known to City from past roles and has internal admirers, making him a logical candidate despite being Chelsea's head coach.
- Ornstein stresses City have considered him before and value his familiarity with Guardiola's methods.
City Advancing Succession Planning
- Manchester City are actively planning contingencies in case Pep Guardiola leaves despite his contract running to 2027.
- David Ornstein says Enzo Maresca is high on their shortlist due to past City connections and internal support.
Maresca's Comments Fuel Transfer Talk
- Maresca's public comments about feeling unsupported have increased speculation about his future and potential suitors.
- Ornstein notes Maresca has taken on agent Jorge Mendes, which suggests career planning beyond Chelsea.