Maresca: Chelsea lose ‘incredible manager’ – Guardiola

by · The Eagle Online

Pep Guardiola has said Chelsea have lost an “incredible manager” following the New Year’s Day exit of Enzo Maresca.

Guardiola spoke ahead of Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Manchester City and Chelsea.

Reacting to Maresca’s departure and speculation linking the Italian with City, he says “Only I can say that Chelsea, I think from my point of view, lose an incredible, incredible manager, Incredible person.

“But it’s a decision from the hierarchy from Chelsea, so (I have) nothing to say.”

Maresca left Chelsea on Thursday, with one of the reasons cited being that he informed the club of discussions with City associates, triggering talk that he could eventually replace Guardiola.

The City manager dismissed suggestions he is preparing to step aside, insisting the decision on his future rests with him.

“You want to fire me?” Guardiola said. “My salary is so high, so I have one more year. So…”

Asked if he plans to remain in charge next season, he was blunt.

“Oh my god. I have a contract, I’ve said it a thousand million times,” he said. “I will leave one day. I promise. But I have a contract. I’m happy, I want to fight with my team.”

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Guardiola, who has 18 months left on his deal, said the club’s hierarchy continues to back him.

“They proved it last season… They support me,” he said. “I like to be here, so we will see.”

On reports of Maresca’s talks with City, Guardiola said he had no knowledge.

“No idea,” he said. “It’s just a rumour. So, I’m sorry, I’m not going to answer that.”

He added that he plans to contact Maresca privately in the coming days.

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