Enzo Maresca says it is a privilege to succeed Pep Guardiola as Manchester City manager – but acknowledges he faces a big challenge.
The Italian also expects to begin his first season in charge with Rodri still in his squad, although the World Cup Golden Ball winner requires back surgery.
Former Chelsea boss Maresca was confirmed as Guardiola’s replacement last month after the Spaniard stepped down following a trophy-laden 10-year reign.
Maresca feels fortunate to be inheriting such a legacy but recognises the difficulties faced by those who have followed managerial greats such as Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger.
Speaking at his unveiling on Friday, Maresca said: “I have to say that it’s a privilege.
“I’ve said many times that I consider Pep probably the best coach in the world of the last 20, 25 years.
“But again, it’s a challenge. The history of (following) the manager with many years in the same club always struggled a little bit – after Sir Alex, after Arsene.
“It’s a challenge to try to do the right things immediately for this organisation, for the fans, for everyone.”
It is Maresca’s third spell at City after coaching the club’s elite development squad and serving as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 treble season.
Maresca said he is returning “back home” to a club well built for success.
He added: “I think the organisation is the main thing. This club, this organisation, they had three managers in 17 years. This is not normal, it doesn’t happen often.
“So this is probably one of the (reasons) that I’m confident we can do a great job.”
Spain midfielder Rodri, 30, has entered the final year of his contract and has been linked with Real Madrid.
“We have to say that around big players there is always speculation,” said Maresca. “I’m not worried about that. I think it’s normal.
“Because they won the World Cup, and he was the best player or one of the best players, I think every manager wants to have Rodri.
“But now surgery on Monday, and he needs holiday. He needs to rest. He needs to recover and then he will be back here with us.”
Chelsea issued a strong statement following Maresca’s appointment, saying they felt “let down” by the manner of the 46-year-old’s New Year’s Day departure amid speculation linking him with City.
Addressing the issue with a smile, Maresca said: “I feel quite lucky in terms of my former clubs – Leicester, Chelsea – I think we did a great job.
“In both clubs, the identity of the team was clear, the success of the team was clear, and I feel very lucky to be part of these clubs.
“But now we are here. That is the most important thing, just about City. Nothing to add.”
Maresca described Jack Grealish, who has returned from his loan at Everton, as a player with a “big heart” but would “see what happens” with regard to his future. He also said “anything can happen” with number two goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with Leeds.
Asked if there might be any more signings following Elliot Anderson’s £116million arrival, Maresca said: “There are still a few things to do, but we are in the process of doing that.”
