‘Chelsea have lost an incredible manager’ – Guardiola on Maresca’s departure and his own future | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Chelsea have lost an incredible manager Enzo Maresca.

Maresca departed Chelsea this week after 18 months in charge at the club.

The Italian has also been linked with the Manchester City job should Guardiola leave, and the City boss was full of praise for his former assistant coach.

“Only I can say that Chelsea, I think from my point of view, lose an incredible, incredible manager,” insisted Guardiola. “Incredible person, but it’s a decision from the hierarchy from Chelsea, so nothing to say.”

The Italian coach’s time at Stamford Bridge came to an end on New Year’s Day, following a run of one league win in seven games.

Guardiola continued: “Surprised? I want to confirm how lucky I am, I was and I am, in the club where I am. My club is extraordinary.”

Aside from Chelsea’s deteriorating form, another reason widely cited for Maresca’s exit has been reported talks between the Italian and City. It has been suggested that he has been lined up as a potential successor for Guardiola, should the Catalan depart.

“No idea,” City’s boss answered on these claims. “You have, I’m pretty sure, more info than me.”

Maresca has, of course, worked at City before – first as an academy manager before serving as Guardiola’s assistant.

The Catalan continued: “What would give you an update about an opinion that I don’t know. It’s just a rumour. I’m sorry, I’m not going to answer that.”

Pressed on his own intentions to remain in his post, an exasperated Guardiola reiterated:  “Oh my God. I have a contract, I said it a thousand million times. I know you are bored of me. It’s ten years here.

“You want to fire me? My salary is so high, so I have one more year.

“You know, I will leave one day. I promise you but I have a contract. I’m happy. I want to fight with my team.”

Just a little over 12 months ago, City’s boss extended his contract until 2027. However, speculation continues around his future.

“The hierarchy respect me,” he said. “They proved that last season what happened in this club that we didn’t win one game in two, three months. They support me.

“So what can I do? I want to try and do it. I have one more year contract. I’d like to be here.

“I said a thousand million times about that. But my credibility is zero, right?”