Negotiations between Chelsea Football Club and Manchester City over the possible appointment of Enzo Maresca as the successor to Pep Guardiola have reportedly stalled due to a disagreement over compensation.
Guardiola confirmed on May 22 that he would step down from his role at Manchester City after a highly successful decade in charge, prompting the club to begin identifying potential replacements, with Maresca emerging as a leading candidate.
However, discussions between both clubs have become complicated, as Chelsea insist they are entitled to compensation for Maresca, who left Stamford Bridge only months ago while still under contract until 2029.
According to reports, Chelsea maintain that the circumstances of his departure require a financial settlement before any move can be finalized, and the club is said to be reviewing its legal position as talks continue.
A Chelsea source was quoted as saying the club’s position remains firm, stressing that Maresca’s contract status creates “an obligation for compensation to be agreed before any appointment can proceed.”
Manchester City are understood to be keen to conclude an agreement swiftly as they prepare for a new managerial era following Guardiola’s exit announcement. However, negotiations have slowed due to disagreements over valuation and timing.
Maresca, who previously worked as an assistant to Guardiola during City’s treble-winning 2022–23 season, is reportedly open to a return to the club where he also previously served in the coaching setup before moving into senior management.
The Italian coach later managed Leicester City, guiding them to Premier League promotion before his spell at Chelsea, where he won the Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League.
While talks remain ongoing, the timeline for any potential appointment is still uncertain, with compensation now the key issue delaying progress.