By Adegboyega Adeleye
Manchester City and Chelsea remain in negotiations over a compensation package as the Premier League champions move closer to appointing Enzo Maresca as successor to Pep Guardiola.
Maresca quickly emerged as City’s preferred candidate after Guardiola announced on May 22 that he would step down following a decade of unprecedented success at the Etihad Stadium.
While discussions between the clubs are said to be at an advanced stage, a final agreement has yet to be reached, with compensation now the key issue delaying the appointment.
The Italian coach is understood to be keen on returning to Manchester City, where he previously worked as one of Guardiola’s assistants during the club’s historic Treble-winning campaign in 2022-23.
Chelsea, however, believe they are entitled to compensation because Maresca was still under contract until 2029 when he left Stamford Bridge only six months ago.
The London club are reportedly exploring their legal options and expect City to pay a compensation fee before the deal can be completed, although the amount and timing of any settlement remain unclear.
Maresca’s departure from Chelsea in January came after a turbulent final period at Stamford Bridge despite delivering silverware.
During his spell in west London, the 46-year-old guided the club to success in the Club World Cup and Conference League, but his relationship with the club’s hierarchy became increasingly strained.
Sources close to Chelsea claim the club became aware of City’s interest in Maresca as early as October and December, while concerns also emerged over disagreements regarding transfer policy, team selection and medical matters.
Despite those issues, Chelsea’s hierarchy reportedly maintained respect for Maresca’s coaching abilities and his popularity within the dressing room.
The club also believes the instability that followed his exit contributed to their decline in form and eventual failure to qualify for European competition.
Before joining Chelsea, Maresca enjoyed a successful season with Leicester City, leading the Foxes back to the Premier League at the first attempt.
With Guardiola’s departure now confirmed, City view Maresca as the leading candidate to begin a new era at the club, but compensation negotiations with Chelsea must first be resolved before any appointment can be finalised.
AFP
