Enzo Maresca: Man City close in on appointment of Italian as manager

City players who are not involved in World Cup action are expected to return for pre-season in mid-July.

But without Maresca being in place, any player potentially considering their future at the club has remained in limbo as they are yet to meet the new boss for talks.

Transfer business has continued in the background though and City have already had two bids rejected for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. They are expected to make another offer.

The chase for the England international will seemingly be done with Maresca’s blessing as the club look to replace departing captain Bernardo Silva.

City Xtra, external website’s Freddie Pye told BBC Sport: “Given the absence of any pre-season training until next month, and even those activities being restricted to non-World Cup players, perhaps Maresca and City have not lost out on anything via a delayed announcement, with the Italian likely to be in close contact over planning for the new season.

“City have a compelling and desirable sales pitch to offer players these days, irrespective of the head coach – though not overlooking the allure of Guardiola. This is a winning project for players, a clear opportunity to win immediate silverware, unrivalled facilities and perhaps joining the start of an exciting new era.

“The futures of players may be a different story, as some may view the departure of Guardiola as the end of a career segment themselves, giving them little reason to remain if being part of the more successful seasons of late at the club.”