Enzo Maresca has expressed that stepping into Pep Guardiola’s shoes at Manchester City is a “privilege.”
Maresca has taken the helm at the Etihad Stadium following Guardiola’s remarkable decade-long tenure at the club.
In a news conference on Friday, the Italian coach, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant at City, recognized the challenges faced by clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal in replacing iconic managers.
Nevertheless, Maresca remains undeterred by the prospect ahead of him.
“Firstly, I want to say it’s a privilege,” Maresca remarked.
“The fact that the club chose me means a lot. I consider Pep the best coach in the world over the last 20 to 25 years.
“This is both a challenge and an honor. The history of managers who have stayed long at a club often face struggles afterward—think of Sir Alex [Ferguson] or Arsene [Wenger]. But it’s also about stepping up to do what’s right for this organization and the fans immediately.
“I feel at home. My experience since day one has been fantastic, and I’m really happy.”
Maresca also responded to rumors regarding Rodri, who played a pivotal role in Spain‘s World Cup triumph.
The 30-year-old has been linked to a transfer to Real Madrid and is scheduled for back surgery on Monday. However, after recovery, Maresca anticipates having the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner in his squad next season.
“There’s always speculation surrounding big players,” stated the former Leicester and Chelsea manager.
“I’m not concerned; it’s a normal situation, especially after their World Cup win. Rodri is an exceptional player, and every manager would want him on their team.
“But first, he needs to focus on his surgery and recovery, followed by some time off, and then he’ll be back with us.”
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This summer, City has already invested £116m ($154.7m) to acquire midfielder Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.
Sources indicate that there is still interest in adding another midfielder and bolstering other areas, including right-back, with Maresca hinting that further transfer activity is expected before the deadline.
“There’s always something to be done, whether it’s because we want to or due to the dynamics of the transfer window,” he noted.
“There are likely a few moves to make, and we’re actively working on that.”