Negotiations between Chelsea and Manchester City over the potential appointment of Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola's successor have stalled amid a dispute over compensation. Guardiola confirmed on May 22 that he would step down after a highly successful decade at City, prompting the club to identify Maresca as their leading candidate.
Compensation Dispute
Discussions have become increasingly complicated, with Chelsea insisting they are entitled to compensation for Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge only months ago while still under contract until 2029. According to reports, Chelsea maintain that the circumstances surrounding his departure require a financial settlement before any move can be completed, and the club is exploring its legal position while talks continue.
A Chelsea source said the club's stance remains firm, noting that Maresca's contract status means "there is an obligation for compensation to be agreed before any appointment can proceed."
City's Urgency
Manchester City are keen to finalize an agreement quickly as they prepare for a new managerial era following Guardiola's exit announcement, but negotiations have slowed due to disagreements over valuation and timing. Maresca, who previously worked as an assistant to Guardiola during City's Treble-winning 2022–23 season, is reportedly open to returning to the club where he also spent time in the coaching setup before moving into senior management.
Maresca's Career
The Italian coach later managed Leicester City, guiding them to promotion to the Premier League before his spell at Chelsea, where he won the Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League. While both clubs remain in discussions, the timeline for any potential appointment remains unclear, with compensation now the major obstacle delaying progress.
