Pep Guardiola’s comments about Enzo Maresca from 2021 have resurfaced after the Italian was linked with the Chelsea job.
Last week, Mauricio Pochettino and Chelsea mutually agreed to part ways after a disappointing 23/24 season.
Since then, the likes of Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi, Kieran McKenna and Thomas Tuchel have all been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
In recent days, it was widely reported that Leicester City manager Maresca has become the leading candidate to replace Pochettino.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano wrote on social media: “Enzo Maresca has no doubts on Chelsea job, the agreement on contract is almost done and details of his staff are being finalised.
“Chelsea and Leicester City, in contact to agree on the compensation fee package for manager and staff. Almost there.”
On the back of the news of Maresca’s imminent arrival, Chelsea fans have appeared to unearth Guardiola’s prediction about the Italian from back in 2021.
The Manchester City boss said at the time: “I am delighted with Enzo Maresca in the EDS, I have a feeling he will be an incredible manager like I had with Mikel Arteta…”
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Since Guardiola made that comment, Mikel Arteta has turned Arsenal into one of the best teams in world football.
The Gunners challenged City for the Premier League title last season and ran them close again during the 23/24 campaign.
However, Guardiola’s men proved too strong in the end as they managed to seal a fourth successive title.
As reported by The Standard, Chelsea believe Maresca’s tactical approach is best suited to the players at the club.
The report stated: “He favours a framework of 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 that aligns with Chelsea’s views on what suits the Stamford Bridge squad.
“Maresca is thought to have found favour with the Chelsea hierarchy through detailing plans on how to help Enzo Fernandez flourish at Stamford Bridge. Maresca is understood to have outlined several set-up shifts that he believes would allow Fernandez to thrive at Chelsea.”
Maresca successfully led Leicester back into the Premier League at the first time of asking after winning the Championship title.
Featured Image Credit: Getty/Sky Sports
Topics: Pep Guardiola, Manchester City, Chelsea, Football, Premier League