Changing of Guard with City

FROM BACK PAGE months ago, when it became clear there was a good chance Guardiola would call time on his glorious decade-long spell in charge in Manchester.

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But Maresca is concerned his start is fraught with difficulties.

The majority of the City squad are expected to be involved in this summer's World Cup, which kicks off on June 11. Those involved will then be entitled to several weeks break once it has finished.

It means the bulk of the squad will not participate in the club's preseason tour of Hong Kong.