Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed speculation linking Enzo Maresca to the Etihad Stadium, reaffirming his commitment to the club. The Spaniard, who has a contract running until summer 2027, emphasized his intention to remain in Manchester despite recent reports suggesting Maresca, formerly Chelsea’s head coach and a former assistant to Guardiola, could succeed him.
Maresca left Chelsea on New Year’s Day, fueling rumours that he had held talks with Manchester City over the past two months. City, however, maintain there is no vacancy for the managerial role. Guardiola, who celebrates his 10th anniversary with the club this year, praised Maresca as “an incredible manager and person” but stressed that he is focused on his own team and contract.
Pep Guardiola says Chelsea have lost an incredible manager in Enzo Maresca.
“I have a contract. I said it a thousand times. It’s 10 years here; I will leave one day, but I am happy. I want to fight with my team,” Guardiola said. He added that the club’s hierarchy has always supported him, even during difficult periods, reinforcing his confidence in staying at City.
The speculation around Maresca reportedly caused tension at Chelsea, with the club feeling disrespected by discussions between Maresca’s agent and City, despite Maresca expressing openness to a new deal at Stamford Bridge. Ironically, Chelsea are City’s next opponents at the Etihad this Sunday, though Guardiola admits he is uncertain about who will manage the London side.
On the pitch, Manchester City aim to bounce back after a 0-0 draw against Sunderland on New Year’s Day left them four points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal. A key boost for Guardiola came from the return of midfielder Rodri in the second half, only his second appearance since October following a long-term knee and hamstring injury.
“He changed the game,” Guardiola said of Rodri. “In 45 minutes, he proved he is the best in his position. We missed him a lot. Hopefully he can stay fit because he makes us a better team.”
Guardiola’s statements make it clear: despite external rumours, the Manchester City boss is fully committed to leading the club in its Premier League and European campaigns.
