Pep Guardiola Subtly Slams Chelsea Over Maresca Exit: 'They Lost An Incredible Manager'

One can rest assured that Pep Guardiola is as happy as could be to stay at Manchester City. More than you believe.

The Spaniard, approaching a decade at the helm at the Etihad, admitted the shock exit of Enzo Maresca from Stamford Bridge only reinforced how fortunate he feels to be at City.

🗣️ ”No idea… I know you are bored of me, it’s been 10 years here”

Pep Guardiola responds to the reports explaining Enzo Maresca left Chelsea to possibly succeed him at Manchester City. pic.twitter.com/Qus29zJhTX

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 2, 2026

Guardiola confirmed last month that he intends to see out his contract until summer 2027, despite speculation linking Maresca — his former assistant — as a potential successor.

Those rumours have only

intensified since Maresca’s dramatic New Year’s Day departure from Chelsea, with reports claiming the Italian’s exit followed talks with City.

From Guardiola’s perspective, Chelsea have made a costly call.

“Chelsea lost an incredible manager, an incredible person,” Guardiola said. “But it’s a decision from their hierarchy. In football, surprise? No. It just confirms how lucky I am where I am. My club is extraordinary.”

The Spaniard, typically blunt when asked about his future, doubled down on his commitment.

“I have a contract. I’ve said it a thousand million times,” he said. “I know you’re bored of me — ten years here, I know. I’ll leave one day, I promise you. But I’m happy. I want to fight with my team.”

Guardiola also pointed to City’s backing during difficult spells as proof of stability.

“Last season, we didn’t win for two or three months. They supported me. That says everything.”

Ironically, Chelsea are City’s next opponents on Sunday, and Guardiola admitted preparation is tricky amid the uncertainty.

“We don’t know which manager will be sitting there,” he said. “So we focus on ourselves.”

City, four points behind league leaders Arsenal at the halfway stage, will look to bounce back after a frustrating 0-0 draw at Sunderland.