Enzo Maresca backs Marc Guehi for future Manchester City captaincy

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca believes Marc Guehi has the qualities to become the club’s captain in the future after promoting the England defender into his leadership group.

Guehi joined City from Crystal Palace during the January transfer window in a deal worth an initial £20 million, committing his future to the Premier League champions until 2031.

The 26-year-old has quickly established himself under Maresca, making 10 appearances since his arrival and contributing a goal and an assist.

His growing influence has earned him a place among the club’s four captains, alongside Rúben Dias, Erling Haaland and Gianluigi Donnarumma, with Maresca convinced the defender could eventually take on the armband permanently.

Maresca identifies future captain

Maresca has been impressed by Guehi’s character and leadership qualities, describing him as a humble individual who leads through his actions rather than constantly speaking on the pitch.

“It’s very easy to speak about Marc, because he’s a fantastic guy, fantastic human being,” Maresca said this week. “Very humble. Probably didn’t see himself as a leader, but for us, he’s one of the leaders.”

The City manager acknowledged that leadership comes in different forms, pointing to Guehi’s quieter approach as an example of how players can influence a dressing room without being the most vocal figures.

“There are different kind of leaders. There are ones that need to talk more, he’s quite a quiet leader. But he has all the characteristics to be a leader. “He’s one of the four captains, but for sure in the future he could be the captain.”

Guehi’s inclusion in the leadership group reflects the trust he has earned within the squad despite arriving at the club only recently.

Guehi embraces leadership challenge

Despite Maresca’s confidence in his leadership potential, Guehi has previously played down the idea that he sees himself as a natural leader.

The England international believes his approach is simply to remain himself and set the right example, while continuing to learn what the role demands.

“It’s funny, I don’t see myself as a leader. “It’s always the opinions of others, and how they see me. I respect that massively. It’s more just me being me, trying to set an example now the light is on me.

“As the years go by, I am trying to learn those little nuances to leadership, which can be difficult, but it’s a learning process and it’s very enjoyable.”

His comments underline a willingness to develop alongside his growing responsibilities at City, where expectations are high and consistency is essential.

Defender becomes key figure at City

Guehi has started all seven of Manchester City’s Premier League matches so far this season, underlining his importance to Maresca’s defensive plans as the club sit top of the table.

His ability to establish himself so quickly has strengthened his standing within the squad and placed him in contention for an even greater leadership role in the coming years.

City will now look to maintain their momentum in the Champions League, with Guehi in line to feature against AEK Athens later on Tuesday.

Another appearance would provide the defender with an opportunity to continue building his partnership with his teammates while reinforcing the qualities that have convinced Maresca he could one day captain the club.