Man City close to settlement with Chelsea to appoint Enzo Maresca

Manchester City are reportedly close to reaching a financial settlement with Chelsea that would enable them to appoint Enzo Maresca as their new manager, the Guardian reported on 20 June 2026. Chelsea have demanded compensation and say they possess evidence that Maresca breached his contract by speaking to Premier League rivals while he was still Chelsea’s manager last season.

Why it matters

A settlement between two of England’s biggest clubs would resolve a public contractual dispute and clear the way for a managerial appointment that could reshape Manchester City’s coaching structure. The situation also raises questions about contractual conduct and how clubs handle alleged breaches when a coach moves between top‑level rivals.

Background to the dispute

According to the Guardian, Chelsea are insisting on compensation before releasing Enzo Maresca to Manchester City. The West London club say they have evidence that the Italian spoke to other Premier League clubs while still under contract at Stamford Bridge last season, which they view as a breach. Manchester City are reported to be close to agreeing a financial settlement that would address Chelsea’s demands and allow City to proceed.

Key points

• Manchester City are close to reaching a financial settlement with Chelsea (Guardian, 20 June 2026).
• Chelsea are demanding compensation to release Enzo Maresca.
• Chelsea allege Maresca breached his contract by talking to Premier League rivals while still their manager last season.
• No official confirmation of an appointment or settlement terms has been reported in the source.

What remains unresolved

The Guardian story does not publish the size or precise terms of any settlement, nor does it cite formal statements from either Manchester City or Chelsea confirming a deal. It also does not provide details of the evidence Chelsea say they have. Until clubs issue official communications, the reported settlement and any subsequent appointment cannot be independently verified.

What happens next

If a financial settlement is agreed, it would remove Chelsea’s contractual obstacle and allow Manchester City to complete any steps needed to appoint Maresca. Observers should look for official announcements from either club, confirmation of terms, and any further reporting that details Chelsea’s allegations or the timeline for a managerial handover.