Maresca, who has been calling the shots at Stamford Bridge since 2024, would be a logical option to take over from Guardiola. He worked with City’s U21 team in the 2020-21 campaign, before returning as a first-team assistant following a brief stint in charge of Parma in his homeland.
He is under contract in west London until 2029, with Chelsea boasting a 12-month extension option in those terms. Questions have, however, been asked of Maresca’s future after he appeared to question the support that he is receiving from top brass at Stamford Bridge.
He said ahead of a 2-0 victory over Everton, which brought a four-match winless run to a close: “The way the players want to learn has been fantastic and this is the reason why I praise them - because with so many problems, they are doing very well after a complicated week. Since I joined the club, the last 48 hours have been the worst because many people didn't support us.”
He added: “Worst 48 hours since I joined the club because people didn't support me and the team.” Maresca went on to say when asked to identify those that do not have his back: “In general. In general. I love the fans and we are very happy with the fans.”