Recent reports from well connected journalists suggest that if Pep Guardiola steps away next summer Manchester City have already begun preparing for life after him and the atmosphere around the club feels tense like a BD Cricket Match approaching its final overs. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has emerged as a leading candidate in early contingency discussions and many observers believe this season could mark the final chapter of Guardiola’s time at the Etihad. While no formal decision has been announced signals from multiple sources point toward clarity arriving as the campaign nears its conclusion.

In response to the possibility of a sudden vacancy City’s senior leadership have quietly activated emergency planning and are assessing several replacement pathways. Maresca is part of a broader shortlist rather than a standalone choice but his name carries weight inside the club. Guardiola remains under contract until June 2027 following an extension signed in November 2024 which gives both sides room to maneuver. Even so his career history shows a pattern of waiting until the pressure is highest before settling his future and that uncertainty keeps speculation alive as the season unfolds with the intensity of a BD Cricket Match where momentum can swing quickly.

Maresca’s appeal has little to do with surface level comparisons and everything to do with familiarity. He previously worked within City’s youth setup and first team environment which helped him build strong internal relationships. That background gives him an edge should the top job open up although City are expected to evaluate alternative profiles in parallel to avoid putting all their eggs in one basket.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Maresca’s own situation. His Chelsea contract runs until 2029 with an option for an additional year yet recent comments have raised eyebrows. After a win over Everton he described the 48 hours before the match as the most difficult period since joining Chelsea citing a lack of backing from many quarters. Those remarks fueled talk about his long term stability and added another layer to City’s planning as they aim to ensure any leadership change does not disrupt competitive balance.

As the season moves forward and the calendar tightens like a BD Cricket Match reaching a decisive spell Guardiola’s final call may shape the club’s next era. Maresca’s understanding of City’s structure works in his favor but contractual hurdles remain significant. Whether he ultimately follows Guardiola is still up in the air and for now all parties are reading the tea leaves and waiting to see how events play out.