Man City’s Pep Guardiola replacement picked as club legend among their options | Football | Sport

The former Barcelona manager assumed control at the Etihad in 2016 and has steered City to 20 trophies during his tenure, transforming the club into one of the most feared forces in world football. City chiefs now face the daunting task of identifying his successor and Express Sport understands they have selected Enzo Maresca as their preferred replacement. It is thought that a deal for the Italian is already being prepared and that Maresca is keen on a return to the club.

Bookmakers have begun listing the favourites to undertake the near-impossible mission of matching Pep’s accomplishments. Among the bookmakers’ front-runners is Maresca, the ex-Chelsea manager who also served as an assistant manager to Guardiola at Man City.

The hunt could equally see them turn to a club legend, with former captain Vincent Kompany potentially returning to assume the role following his success at Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. However, he experienced a difficult spell in the Premier League during his most recent managerial stint at Burnley and is thought to be very happy in Germany.

Additional favourites for the position are all presently managing in the Premier League. Current Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola are also among the contenders, according to bookmakers.

There is also speculation that current Manchester City assistant manager Pep Lijnders will step up into the top job. Lijnders previously served under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool before moving to the blue half of Manchester. Long shots include Como boss Cesc Fabregas and PSG manager Luis Enrique.

Atletico Madrid chief Diego Simeone may have featured higher on the bookmakers’ list, however, the Argentine has recently spoken publicly about his wish to remain in La Liga.