Enzo Maresca: Man City is close to appointing the Italian coach

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

But any player considering their future at the club without Maresca has been left in limbo as they have yet to speak to the new boss.

The transfer business continued in the background and the city rejected two bids Nottingham Forest Midfielder Elliott Anderson. They are expected to make another offer.

As the club look to replace departing captain Bernardo Silva, it appears Maresca Burakeh will be in pursuit of the England international.

City Xtra, External The website’s Freddie Pye told BBC Sport that with no pre-season training until next month and those activities limited to non-World Cup players, Maresca and City have probably lost nothing by the delayed announcement.

“The city currently has a compelling and desirable selling point to offer players, regardless of the head coach – without ignoring the charm of Guardiola. This is a win-win project for the players, a clear opportunity to win immediate silverware, unrivaled facilities and perhaps the start of an exciting new era.

The players’ futures may be a different story as some see Guardiola’s departure as the end of a career, giving them little reason to move on if they were part of the club’s more successful seasons at the end of the season.