Manchester City have confirmed the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new manager, bringing the Italian back to the Etihad Stadium for a third time.
Maresca first joined City in 2020, leading the club’s Elite Development Squad to the Premier League 2 title. He returned in 2022 as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistant managers and played a key role in City’s historic Treble-winning campaign in 2023.
After leaving Manchester, Maresca guided Leicester City back to the Premier League by winning the Championship before taking charge of Chelsea. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he won the UEFA Conference League, secured Champions League qualification and later led the club to FIFA Club World Cup success.
Speaking after his appointment, Maresca described the move as a special moment.
“Manchester City is a club I know very well and to have the chance to manage this team is a brilliant opportunity for me.”
“City is an incredibly well-run football club. Everything they do is innovative, planned and purposeful. For a manager, that is a dream situation. It provides the consistency I need to do my job effectively.”
“This will be my third spell here. I know this club, I know the demands and I know the expectations.”
“The quality of the people who work here is what makes it so special, and I want to thank them for showing faith in my ability.”
“I cannot wait to start coaching the players. I want us to win, play good football and enjoy the pressure of representing Manchester City.”
Chelsea also released a statement explaining Maresca’s departure in January 2026. The club said he informed officials months earlier about the possibility of succeeding Guardiola and later resigned despite being under a long-term contract.
Manchester City will now look to begin a new era under Maresca as they aim to compete for domestic and European honours once again.
