Manchester City near financial settlement with Chelsea to appoint Enzo Maresca | OneFootball

Chelsea and Manchester City have reportedly never been closer to agreeing on a deal to allow Enzo Maresca to officially take over at the Etihad Stadium.

City are on the brink of finalising a financial settlement in a move that will pave the way for Maresca to take over as their new manager.

While football betting sites are not inundated with fans betting on Maresca to take over, given the fact that it has been considered a done deal since Pep Guardiola announced his departure earlier this year, the move has not technically taken place yet.

The settlement comes as a result of Chelsea’s demand for compensation from Manchester City, following allegations that Enzo Maresca breached his contract at Stamford Bridge.

Allegations of a breach of contract

Chelsea claim to have evidence that Enzo Maresca was in talks with Manchester City, their Premier League rivals, while still under contract with them last season.

Reports suggest Maresca had informed Chelsea of discussions with both City and Napoli during the tumultuous weeks leading up to an unexpected resignation on New Year’s Day. This claim has not been contested.

Enzo Maresca’s departure had a significant impact on Chelsea’s season, leading to a 10th-place finish in the Premier League and missing out on European qualification. Despite this, Chelsea maintain a positive relationship with City and are confident an amicable agreement can be reached.

History of compensation payments for managers

Chelsea previously paid Leicester £8 million in compensation to secure Maresca’s release as manager two years ago. In January, they made another multi-million-pound payment to sister club Strasbourg to bring in Liam Rosenior as Maresca’s replacement.

Chelsea have considered bringing a separate legal claim against Maresca for an alleged breach of contract. However, this is likely to be dropped if they reach an agreement with Manchester City.

The club has also hinted at having enough evidence to report Manchester City to the Premier League for making an illegal approach to Enzo Maresca, but they have chosen to continue negotiations instead.

The financial settlement, which is expected to exceed £10 million, is currently being negotiated between the two clubs.

Manchester City are not due to return for pre-season training until mid-next month due to 19 of their players participating in the World Cup. This gives them ample time to resolve the matter, although Maresca is keen to begin his tenure at the club as soon as possible.

Both Chelsea and City have declined to comment on ongoing negotiations, in a situation that serves as a reminder of the complexities and potential legal implications involved in the world of sports management and player transfers, particularly for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts.