BREAKING: Chelsea To File ‘legal Complaint’ About Man City As Pep Guardiola Replacement Lined Up

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According to a report by the Daily Mirror on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Enzo Maresca has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, while a potential legal dispute involving Chelsea is also reportedly being considered over the circumstances of his departure from Stamford Bridge.

Guardiola is expected to leave City at the end of the season after a decade in charge, marking the end of one of the most successful managerial spells in English football history. His exit has triggered immediate planning at the Etihad Stadium, with the club identifying Maresca as a serious contender to take over the role.

Maresca, who previously worked within Manchester City’s coaching setup, is understood to be well-regarded internally due to his familiarity with the club’s playing philosophy and tactical structure. He also spent time as part of Guardiola’s backroom staff, strengthening his connection to the club’s modern footballing identity.

However, his potential return to Manchester has been overshadowed by reports of tension surrounding his departure from Chelsea earlier this year. Maresca left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent on New Year’s Day after an 18-month spell in charge, during which he experienced both success and instability.

Chelsea believe that Maresca’s exit was influenced by behind-the-scenes discussions involving Manchester City, with claims that the Italian had engaged in conversations regarding the possibility of succeeding Guardiola. These allegations have not been officially confirmed by either club.

According to reports, Chelsea are now preparing to pursue compensation from Manchester City if Maresca is appointed as Guardiola’s successor. It is suggested that any formal complaint would be made through Premier League channels, with Chelsea potentially relying on internal communications and contractual terms linked to his departure.

Maresca’s time at Chelsea included a strong early period, highlighted by trophy success in European competition, but results reportedly declined during a difficult run in the Premier League.

Disagreements over transfer policy and squad planning are also said to have contributed to growing tension between the coach and the club’s hierarchy before his exit.

Following his departure, Maresca has since been linked with several top-level managerial roles, but Manchester City is viewed as his most high-profile opportunity yet.

Guardiola, who has won 20 trophies during his tenure at City, is expected to oversee his final matches before formally stepping down. His departure marks a significant turning point for the club, which has dominated English football for much of the past decade.