Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterPep Guardiolas Etihad Stadium reign came to an end at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, which saw the Spaniard lift the FA and Carabao Cups one final time.Manchester City have seemingly turned to ex-Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca as the candidate deemed most suitable to follow in the legendary Guardiolas footsteps.But before his official Cityzen coronation, the Manchester club are embroiled in more legal drama: this time, subject to compensation claims from Marescas previous London employers.Chelsea hold up Maresca to Manchester City dealMaresca left Stamford Bridge in January of this year, replaced by Liam Rosenior, who also exited the club months later.The Italian, who oversaw a turbulent 2025 for Chelsea, departed with three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, leading to a financial dispute. You may like Manchester City in talks with Enzo Maresca - though Italian has 'commitments' to Chelsea: report Manchester City manager appointment imminent after secret Pep Guardiola talks revealed Manchester City agree deal with Pep Guardiola successor: report Get VIP Manchester City tickets for next season HERE with Seat Unique!Manchester City's hospitality provides Level 2 South West Corner seating and access to the exclusive Manager's Corner Lounge and Bar. Guests can enjoy premium food and bar options, complimentary tea and coffee at half-time and full-time, and a matchday programme. Car parking (one per four guests) is also included, adding convenience to this enhanced match experience.View DealThat is directed towards Manchester City, Marescas next employers, with the request for compensation causing a hold-up in his announcement as the club's next manager.Chelsea have apparently refused to sign off on a contractual release for the Italian, making it impossible for Maresca to become Guardiolas successor in Manchester, as things stand.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.That refusal will only happen should Manchester City be unable to meet their financial demands, which was disputed initially due to being a seven-figure.Manchester City fans will be relieved to know that the deal being brokered between the clubs respective legal teams is edging closer to an agreement.According to a report from Sky Sports, Manchester City are hopeful that an adequate compensation package and deal will be brokered by the weeks end. What to read next Manchester City respond to Pep Guardiola 'farewell video' leak: report Manchester City consider ambitious rival signing heist this summer: report Pep Guardiola's big reason for leaving Manchester City is down to a key figure's exit #ManCity remain in talks with Chelsea over compensation for Enzo Maresca and a deal is in the hands of each club's respective lawyers. @ManCity are hopeful of an agreement this week.[@SkyKaveh/@SkySportsLyall]June 3, 2026As a result, the Cityzens expect to formally announce Maresca as the clubs next manager once an agreement has been reached, likely this weekend.It is expected that Chelsea will refuse to settle without receiving the largest possible payout from Manchester City, with all cards firmly held by the West London club.The Italian has large shoes to fill: with Guardiolas haul extending to six Premier League titles, one Champions League trophy, and too many domestic cups to count.Guardiola's successor has been in recent talks with the man himself, as well as discussions with the club regarding summer transfer activity.Marescas first games at the helm of Manchester City will be during the clubs Far East Asia pre-season tour, ahead of the ex-Chelsea mans debut Etihad campaign.TOPICSEnzo MarescaPep GuardiolaManchester CityChelseaPremier LeagueChampions LeagueKedar BayleySocial Links NavigationFreelance WriterKedar Bayley is a trained journalist specialising in culture reporting. As a fan of Liverpool FC,he writes on the Reds often. Knowledgable about all things sports, cinema and television,you can find his words in Screen International, FourFourTwo, Manchester Evening News and more.
