Maresca: Replacing Guardiola At Manchester City Is A Privilege
New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca says succeeding Pep Guardiola is both an honour and a challenge as he begins a new chapter at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking during his first press conference as City boss, the Italian described Guardiola as one of the greatest coaches of the modern era and admitted he is proud to take over from the Spaniard.
"It's a privilege," Maresca said. "I've said many times that I consider Pep probably the best coach in the world over the last 20 to 25 years. It is a challenge, but it's a nice one and a privilege for me."
Maresca believes Manchester City's stability behind the scenes gives him confidence that the club can continue its success.
He pointed to the fact that City have had only three permanent managers in the last 17 years, unlike several other top clubs that struggled after long-serving managers departed.
"The organisation is the main thing," he said. "Having only three managers in 17 years is not normal in football. That stability gives us a strong foundation, and I'm confident we can continue to do a great job."
The former Leicester City manager also addressed the futures of several players. He praised Jack Grealish, who has returned from a loan spell at Everton, describing the England international as a player with "a big heart", while adding that discussions over his future are still ongoing.
On goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with Leeds United, Maresca said no decision has been made, insisting that "anything can happen."
Regarding City's transfer business, Maresca hinted that more arrivals could follow the club's big-money signing of Elliot Anderson. "There are still a few things to do, and we are working on them," he said.
Manchester City will head out on their pre-season tour next week as preparations intensify ahead of the new campaign. Maresca's first competitive test will come in three weeks when City face Arsenal.
Speaking during his first press conference as City boss, the Italian described Guardiola as one of the greatest coaches of the modern era and admitted he is proud to take over from the Spaniard.
"It's a privilege," Maresca said. "I've said many times that I consider Pep probably the best coach in the world over the last 20 to 25 years. It is a challenge, but it's a nice one and a privilege for me."
Maresca believes Manchester City's stability behind the scenes gives him confidence that the club can continue its success.
He pointed to the fact that City have had only three permanent managers in the last 17 years, unlike several other top clubs that struggled after long-serving managers departed.
"The organisation is the main thing," he said. "Having only three managers in 17 years is not normal in football. That stability gives us a strong foundation, and I'm confident we can continue to do a great job."
The former Leicester City manager also addressed the futures of several players. He praised Jack Grealish, who has returned from a loan spell at Everton, describing the England international as a player with "a big heart", while adding that discussions over his future are still ongoing.
On goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with Leeds United, Maresca said no decision has been made, insisting that "anything can happen."
Regarding City's transfer business, Maresca hinted that more arrivals could follow the club's big-money signing of Elliot Anderson. "There are still a few things to do, and we are working on them," he said.
Manchester City will head out on their pre-season tour next week as preparations intensify ahead of the new campaign. Maresca's first competitive test will come in three weeks when City face Arsenal.
