Guardiola reaffirms City contract as Maresca speculation builds

Pep Guardiola has reiterated his desire to stay on at Manchester City despite reports that former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has held talks about potentially taking over at the Etihad.

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The long-serving City manager, 54, said last month he intended to see out his contract at City, which runs until the end of the 2026/27 season.

That followed speculation City had identified Maresca, a former assistant of Guardiola’s, as a possible successor to the Spaniard should he decide to step down at the end of this season.

Maresca has since parted company with Chelsea — leaving Stamford Bridge on New Year's Day.

It is understood the Italian’s exit came after he informed the club he had held talks with City.

Guardiola, who will celebrate the 10th anniversary of his appointment this year, said: “The only (thing) I can say is that Chelsea, I think, from my point of view, lose an incredible, incredible manager, incredible person.

“But this (is a) decision from the hierarchy from Chelsea, so (I have) nothing to say.”