“Pep Guardiola Reacts to Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea Exit: ‘How Lucky I Am’ at Manchester City”

 

“Pep Guardiola reacts to Maresca’s Chelsea exit”

Pep Guardiola has publicly addressed the sudden departure of his former assistant Enzo Maresca from Chelsea, offering measured remarks on the situation and highlighting his appreciation for the stability he enjoys as Manchester City manager.

Maresca, who had been appointed as Chelsea head coach in 2024 following spells in Italy and as an assistant at Manchester City, left Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day amid a turbulent run of form and internal tensions at the west London club. Chelsea announced the decision as part of a broader attempt to arrest a slump in results.

In a pre-match press conference ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea, Guardiola described Maresca as “an incredible manager and an incredible person” and acknowledged the difficulty of the circumstances surrounding his exit. “From my point of view Chelsea have lost an incredible, incredible manager, incredible person. It’s a decision from the Chelsea hierarchy so I’ve nothing to say,” Guardiola said.

Guardiola’s remarks were notable for their contrast, underlining both respect for Maresca’s qualities and a reminder of the contrasting environment at City. Speaking to reporters, the Spaniard said the developments “only confirm how lucky I am in the club where I am. My club is extraordinary.”

The comments came amid questions about Guardiola’s own future at Manchester City. Speculation had intensified following reports that Maresca had been in discussions with figures associated with City about a potential future role there. Some sources suggested Chelsea believed conversations had taken place between Maresca and City representatives during the past two months, though Manchester City denied there was a vacancy to discuss.

Guardiola addressed these rumours directly, reaffirming his commitment to Manchester City. “I have a contract. I say a thousand million times. I know you’re bored of me – I’ve been here for ten years and I promise you I will leave one day but I have a contract. I’m happy, I want to fight with my team,” he told journalists.

The City manager emphasised the mutual respect between himself and the club’s hierarchy. He pointed to the support he received during a difficult period last season in which the team endured an extended run without wins, noting that Manchester City stood behind him despite the poor spell. “The hierarchy respect me – that was proved last season when we didn’t win one game in two, three months. They supported me,” he said.

Guardiola, who will mark ten years in charge at Manchester City in 2026, has a contract that runs until 2027. He reiterated that he is focused on his current responsibilities rather than speculation over future managerial succession. “I like to be here, so we will see, you will see,” he added.

Maresca’s departure from Chelsea has sparked considerable discussion within English football. Despite significant achievements during his 18 months in charge – including winning the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup with the Blues – his tenure was characterised by inconsistent league form and reports of strained relations with parts of the club’s hierarchy.

Chelsea’s poor Premier League results, which included one win in their last seven matches before his exit, contributed to mounting pressure on the Italian coach. Reports indicated disagreements over management autonomy, including clashes with the club’s medical team.

Defensive issues and mounting criticism from supporters similarly underscored the club’s challenging period. Fan discontent reportedly surfaced in Chelsea’s matches during late 2025, with public frustration growing over tactical decisions and results.

As Chelsea seeks a new head coach, names such as Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior have emerged as potential candidates to succeed Maresca. Rosenior has publicly addressed links with Chelsea, acknowledging the speculation but emphasising his focus on his current team. “There are zero guarantees,” he said in response to the rumours.

In the interim, Chelsea’s Under‑21 coach Calum McFarlane is understood to be in temporary charge as the club continues its search for a permanent manager.

Guardiola’s comments also addressed preparations for the imminent match against Chelsea. With his side four points behind Premier League leaders following a goalless draw at Sunderland on New Year’s Day, the City manager spoke of the need to remain focused on his own squad amid a packed schedule.

“We don’t talk much if we don’t know what the opponent’s going to be like because we don’t know which manager will be sitting. I don’t know what’s going to happen so no concern. Think about yourself, what you have to do,” Guardiola said.

Maresca’s unexpected exit from Stamford Bridge and Guardiola’s subsequent reflections have underlined contrasting approaches to managerial stability within English football. While Chelsea embarks on a new chapter in the midst of the season, Guardiola’s remarks emphasise continuity and mutual support as he leads Manchester City through a critical phase of the title race.