Deal

  Talks between Chelsea and Manchester City regarding the possible appointment of Enzo Maresca as a replacement for Pep Guardiola have hit a deadlock due to disagreements over compensation. Guardiola confirmed on May 22 that he would step down from his role at City after a highly successful decade in charge, prompting the club to identify Maresca as their leading candidate to take over at the Etihad Stadium. However, discussions between the two clubs have become increasingly complicated, with Chelsea insisting they are entitled to a compensation fee for Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge only months ago while still under contract until 2029. As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, Chelsea maintain that the circumstances of his departure mean a financial settlement is required before any move can be completed, and have been exploring their 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 are understood to be keen to finalise an agreement quickly as they prepare for a new managerial era following Guardiola’s exit announcement, but negotiations have been slowed by the disagreement over valuation and timing. Maresca, who previously worked as an assistant to Guardiola during City’s Treble-winning 2022–23 season, is said to be open to returning to the club where he also spent time in the coaching setup before moving into senior management. 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 dialogue, the timeline for any potential appointment remains unclear, with the compensation issue now the key factor delaying progress.