Enzo Maresca’s impossible job: Following Pep Guardiola at Manchester City

Enzo Maresca now faces football’s toughest assignment. He must replace Pep Guardiola, whose decade at Manchester City redefined modern football.

Consequently, expectations sit impossibly high from day one. Add Rodri’s uncertain future and looming back surgery, and the rebuild looks trickier still.

Nevertheless, Manchester City continue spending, signalling their intent to stay dominant.

What Enzo Maresca needs to do at the Etihad to make Manchester City competitive again

First, Enzo Maresca must establish his own identity quickly. Comparisons to Guardiola will follow him constantly, so he can’t simply imitate his old mentor. Instead, he needs a clear tactical vision players actually believe in.

Second, he must handle the Rodri situation delicately. The Spaniard just won the World Cup and drew interest from Real Madrid and PSG. Losing him would strip City of their defensive anchor. Therefore, Maresca has wisely stayed calm publicly, calling the speculation “normal”.

Third, squad integration matters enormously. New signings need time to gel, especially in midfield. Maresca must balance patience with results, since Premier League fans rarely wait long. Above all, he needs early wins to build trust with sceptical supporters.

Early Maresca impact and Manchester City’s summer of rebuild

So far, City haven’t wasted time backing their new manager. They’ve already signed Elliot Anderson for £130 million, strengthening midfield depth immediately. Furthermore, reports suggest Maresca wants both Enzo Fernandez and if Rodri leaves, it could happen.

That interest makes sense given the Rodri uncertainty. Fernandez, specifically, would provide security if City eventually lose their captain. Meanwhile, Gusto offers fresh legs at right-back, an area Maresca clearly wants reinforced.

Regarding Rodri, Maresca has handled things sensibly. He confirmed the midfielder’s back surgery will likely delay his start to the season. However, he refused to entertain sale rumours, insisting City still plan around him long-term. That measured tone suggests calmness.

Ultimately, Maresca inherits enormous resources and genuine ambition from the boardroom but Pep’s shadow looms large. Money is there and more deals seem likely before deadline day. Whether that translates into results, though, remains the only question that matters.