Manchester City have confirmed the return of Enzo Maresca as the club’s new manager, handing the Italian a three-year contract that will keep him at the Etihad Stadium until the summer of 2029.
The appointment marks Maresca’s third spell at the Premier League champions, with the club expressing confidence that his coaching philosophy and familiarity with City’s football structure make him the ideal candidate to lead the next phase of its success.
Maresca, who previously worked with Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad (EDS) and was part of the club’s historic Treble-winning coaching staff, returns after successful managerial spells at Leicester City and Chelsea.
Speaking after his appointment, the 46-year-old described the opportunity to lead Manchester City as a dream come true.
“Manchester City is a club I know very well and to have the chance to manage this team is a brilliant opportunity for me,” Maresca said.
“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.”
The Italian said his previous experience at the club had prepared him for the challenge ahead.
“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.”
Manchester City Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak described Maresca as a perfect fit for the club, saying his ambition, intelligence and style of football closely reflect City’s long-term vision.
“Enzo is someone who has always sought out opportunities to challenge himself and succeed in his managerial career. He brings a personality, passion and intelligence completely aligned to our needs,” Al Mubarak said.
He added that Maresca was returning to an environment that understands his philosophy and is well equipped to support his ambitions.
“Enzo inherits a squad and football organisation perfectly suited to reflect and evolve his brand of football, and we are all very much looking forward to seeing the impact he can have in building further on the club’s success.
“Welcome home, Enzo.”
Manchester City Chief Executive Officer Ferran Soriano said the club identified Maresca as the outstanding candidate during its search for a new manager.
“Enzo was the stand-out candidate in our considerations. We know his personality and his vision for the way football should be played. He is a man with integrity, charisma and passion,” Soriano said.
He praised Maresca’s achievements with Chelsea and Leicester City, while highlighting his previous contributions during his time at Manchester City.
“In addition to his successes at Chelsea and Leicester, his City track record speaks for itself. He managed our EDS team with distinction and was a key contributor to the historic Treble season.”
Soriano said the club would provide the new manager with all the support needed to continue Manchester City’s winning tradition.
Maresca now takes charge with the task of maintaining City’s dominance in English football while building on the success that has established the club as one of Europe’s elite.
