Rodri to undergo back surgery but Enzo Maresca brushes off transfer speculation around Spain midfielder

In his first news conference since succeeding Pep Guardiola last month, Marseca found himself fielding questions about the Catalan, who won 20 trophies in his 10 years at the club.

The 46-year-old knows only too well the tough act he has to follow having worked as Guardiola’s assistant during the 2022-23 Treble winning season.

“I want to say it is a privilege because it’s the reason why the club decided to go for me, that is a privilege,” he said.

“I have said many times, I consider Pep the best coach in the world in the last 20-25 years. It is a challenge [to replace him].”

Maresca, who called time on his time at Chelsea in January after 18 months, acknowledged the challenge of arriving at a club who have had just three managers in 16 years.

“That is not normal and has not happened often,” he said. “I am confident that we can continue to do a great job and continue to do the job that has been done in the last 14, 15 years since Roberto Mancini was here.

“I know the organisation quite well and the people inside the club from years ago. The structure understands to give time for everything.

“Since Manchester City contacted me, I had no doubt about joining this fantastic club.”

Maresca hinted that there were “a few things to do” in the transfer window but would not be drawn on the futures of players including goalkeeper James Trafford, who has been linked with a move away from the club, and returning midfielder Jack Grealish, who spent last season on loan at Everton but is back in training with City.