Manchester City defender, Josko Gvardiol, has expressed strong belief in Enzo Maresca’s ability to guide the club into a new era, describing the Italian as the “perfect” choice to succeed Pep Guardiola.
Maresca took over as City manager following Guardiola’s departure at the end of a remarkable 10-year reign that delivered multiple domestic and European honours.
The 46-year-old officially began his tenure during the club’s pre-season tour and oversaw his first match, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat to Inter Milan in Hong Kong.
Speaking to BBC Sport on Sunday, Gvardiol said Maresca has the qualities required to continue Manchester City’s success, even though replacing one of football’s greatest managers will inevitably take time.
“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.
“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.”
The Croatia international stressed that the players also have an important responsibility in ensuring the new manager settles quickly at the club.
“It’s our job to help him as much as possible and also to listen and try to adapt as quick as possible,” he said.
Gvardiol also disclosed that he has already spoken with Maresca, revealing that their conversation centred on his recovery from injury and the role he played under Guardiola.
Looking back on Guardiola’s departure, the defender said the timing of the announcement felt right, noting that members of the squad had sensed the end of the Spaniard’s era was approaching after a decade in charge.
Guardiola left Manchester City at the conclusion of last season after transforming the club into one of Europe’s dominant forces, with Maresca now tasked with leading the Premier League champions into their next chapter.
