An era is coming to an end for Manchester City and the Premier League. Pep Guardiola has confirmed that he is leaving after a decade in the job. He has won twenty trophies during that time. The Spaniard will get both a stand in his name and a statue outside their stadium, and deservedly so. He is arguably the greatest of all time. Now, former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca looks set to be the one to take on the daunting task of replacing him.
Of course, many will inevitably make the David Moyes comparisons. But the difference is, Maresca is already used to Manchester City, having spent so much time there already, as a youth and as an assistant to Maresca.
It is hard to imagine that less than a year back, he was winning the Club World Cup with Chelsea and being considered the future manager for years to come. That is how quickly things can change in football. Now, it appears that the Italian could come calling for some of his favourites at Stamford Bridge. In fact, work might already be underway in that regard.
According to a report from Sky Sport, Maresca absolutely wants to sign Enzo Fernandez for Manchester City. There is a close and trusting relationship between the coach and the Argentine World Cup winner. The first talks have already taken place behind the scenes.
Maresca wants Chelsea favourite to join him at Manchester City
The rumours of Manchester City interest in Fernandez broke out a few weeks back. At that point, Maresca was not expected to replace Guardiola this summer. The Spaniard still had a year on his deal. And although the rumours of an exit were already there, nothing was set in stone.
Now, one has to wonder about the timing of everything that has happened this season. Maresca walking out in the middle of the campaign. The Manchester City links with Fernandez and Marc Cucurella. And now, the reports from earlier today that the Argentine midfielder was likely to leave this summer.
How long have these things been moving on in the background? Have we gotten the news as things have happened? Or are we days or weeks behind, perhaps even months, behind?
Chelsea cannot afford to see this move happen
There are two reasons Chelsea cannot afford to see this materialise. Firstly, losing Fernandez would be a blow. Realistically, they cannot replace him, even if he brings in a transfer fee north of £100 million. Those 22 goal contributions from midfield are unique. Only a few players in the world can pull it off.
Secondly, Fernandez joining Man City would be strengthening a direct rival. Not just that, it would be doing so in a know that we know is guaranteed to work.
We have already seen Fernandez shine at Chelsea under Maresca. In fact, he was the one who improved his output, which had been nothing special in his first 18 months at the club. Even if the Argentine leaves, Real Madrid or PSG would be a better destination.