Maresca Prepares Man City Clear-Out: Eight Stars Face the Exit Door

Enzo Maresca's arrival at Manchester City is set to trigger a significant squad reshuffle, with as many as eight players facing uncertain futures at the Etihad.

The former Chelsea manager's appointment was officially confirmed on Monday, ending months of speculation and a protracted legal dispute with Stamford Bridge over compensation. Chelsea's complaint that the saga disrupted their campaign appears to have been resolved with a substantial settlement, allowing Maresca to finally take the reins from Pep Guardiola.

City have already moved swiftly in the transfer market, with Elliot Anderson poised to complete a £116m switch after undergoing his medical. The midfielder represents the club's statement of intent as they prepare for life under new management.

The midfield hunt extends further afield, with Ayyoub Bouaddi emerging as a priority target. The Lille prospect, born in 2007, has caught City's attention, and Fabrizio Romano reports initial conversations have taken place. City are understood to be considering a plan to leave Bouaddi at Ligue 1 until summer 2027 if a deal materialises, with PSG, Liverpool, and Arsenal also monitoring the situation. However, City and Liverpool are viewed as frontrunners in the race.

Yet acquisition is only half the story. Maresca and director of football Hugo Viana face a challenging sorting exercise with several established names potentially heading for the exit.

Rodri's immediate future remains clouded after he requires surgery for an undisclosed injury that will sideline him at the start of the campaign. Contract discussions beyond 2027 have stalled following City's opening proposal, leaving the door ajar for a potential departure before his deal expires.

Nathan Ake is expected to depart, whilst Rico Lewis is being closely watched following Nottingham Forest's interest. Savinho's status is similarly uncertain amid speculation over his future.

Further complications arise with Mateo Kovacic and Omar Marmoush both reassessing their positions. Nico Gonzalez is another name the club hierarchy would entertain offers for. Ruben Dias could also move on, with a possible reunion at Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho alongside Bernardo Silva being floated.

In more positive news for Maresca, Josko Gvardiol has committed his future to City by signing a new contract, despite earlier flirtations with an Etihad departure.