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Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol has thrown his support behind new manager Enzo Maresca, describing the Italian as the ideal successor to Pep Guardiola and expressing confidence that he can guide the Premier League champions into a successful new era despite the enormous task of replacing one of football’s greatest managers.
Maresca officially succeeded Guardiola following the Spaniard’s decision to end his remarkable 10-year reign at the Etihad Stadium, a period that delivered multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and international honours. The Italian has already begun work with the squad during City’s pre-season tour, overseeing his first match in charge in a penalty shootout defeat to Inter Milan in Hong Kong.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Gvardiol said Maresca’s appointment was based on merit and insisted the former assistant coach possesses the qualities required to continue Manchester City’s dominance while introducing his own ideas to the team.
“The level is that high, and he has been chosen with reason as the manager,” Gvardiol said.
“I think he has quality, has some new ideas, and also we need to see what we are going to do with the style of play, the football we are going to play and the tactics.”
The Croatia international acknowledged that replacing Guardiola would never be straightforward, stressing that both the manager and players would require time to adapt to a new chapter after a decade under the Spaniard.
“I think he is a perfect one, but of course, it takes time. It’s something totally new. It’s not easy to change the manager, so we will take time,” he added.
Gvardiol also stressed that responsibility for ensuring a smooth transition extends beyond the coaching staff, saying the players must fully support Maresca as he implements his philosophy.
“It’s our job to help him as much as possible and also to listen and try to adapt as quick as possible,” the defender said.
The 24-year-old revealed that he has already held discussions with Maresca, with the conversations centred on his recovery from injury and the role he played under Guardiola, suggesting preparations are already underway for the tactical adjustments expected under the new manager.
Reflecting on Guardiola’s departure, Gvardiol admitted the decision did not come as a complete surprise, noting that many within the dressing room sensed the legendary coach’s time at the club was nearing its conclusion after a decade of unprecedented success.
Guardiola stepped down at the end of last season after transforming Manchester City into one of Europe’s dominant forces, leaving Maresca with the challenge of preserving the club’s winning culture while establishing his own identity at the Etihad Stadium.
