Napoli have an interest in Enzo Maresca in the scenario that Antonio Conte departs, with Manchester City the favourites to land the former Chelsea boss.
The manager merry-go-round is set to accelerate as the end of the season approaches, as clubs are ready to make moves in the market. Enzo Maresca is a big name available ahead of the summer, and despite heavy links with Manchester City of late, Calcio Mercato states that Napoli are also interested in bringing the Italian to Serie A.
Enzo Maresca made a good mark on proceedings during his brief stint at Chelsea, winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup titles. The Italian parted company with the Londoners at the end of 2025, with the reported talks with Manchester City marking the beginning of the turbulent nature of his relationship with the Blues at the time.
Manchester City reportedly want Maresca to replace Pep Guardiola in the event the latter ends up leaving. Multiple sources have indicated talks have taken place between the two parties over a role at the Etihad, as Maresca has previously spent time with the club in the capacity of Guardiola’s assistant, similar to Mikel Arteta.
Manchester City are confident of signing Maresca, but there might be complications in the background amid rising interest in the 46-year-old former Chelsea manager. For instance, Napoli are eager to bring the Italian to Serie A if Antonio Conte ends up leaving.
Conte traditionally, is not known to have a smooth relationship with club owners anywhere, and that is the case at Napoli. Aurelio Di Laurentiis and Conte are expected to hold talks, probably once the season ends, to determine the future, as there’s the chance he might leave. In that scenario, Di Laurentiis wants Maresca at the helm to help the club win the Scudetto next season.
What Next for Enzo Maresca?
Maresca is eager to take up the Manchester City role and continue in the Premier League, where he is settled. However, any movement will depend on Guardiola’s decision on his own future, as the Catalan boss has not yet confirmed what he intends to do.
Guardiola has a year left on his deal at Manchester City, with widespread reports stating he might walk away in the summer. Should that information come out as a confirmation, Maresca should be in pole position to take over at the Etihad.
