Pep Guardiola has already made his feelings clear on Enzo Maresca ahead of Chelsea vs Man City opening-day clash

Pep Guardiola has already spoken about Enzo Maresca ahead of Manchester City’s opening-day clash against Chelsea.

On Tuesday morning, the fixtures for the 24/25 Premier League season were released.

Reigning champions City, who are chasing their fifth title in a row, will travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Manchester United will host Fulham, new Liverpool boss Arne Slot’s Premier League journey will begin with an away trip to newly promoted Ipswich Town and Arsenal will welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to the Emirates Stadium.

With Chelsea set to welcome City to Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend, new boss Maresca will be reunited with Guardiola, whom he worked under at the Etihad club.

Back in 2021, Guardiola made a big prediction about Maresca when speaking about the work he’s done with the academy.

The City boss said at the time: “I am delighted with Enzo Maresca in the EDS, I have a feeling he will be an incredible manager like I had with Mikel Arteta…”

Since that comment was made, Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal into a title-challenging side, having pushed City close in the past two seasons.

Meanwhile, Maresca got his first taste of managing in English football when he was hired by Leicester City.

Getty

The Italian went on to lead the Foxes back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, winning the Championship title along the way.

Speaking after being appointed as Chelsea boss, Maresca said: “To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach.

“It is why I am so excited by this opportunity. I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.”

SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated transfer news channel to send you the latest deals, rumours and more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.