“Oh my God, I have a contract!” » Exasperated Guardiola downplays talk of leaving Man City this summer despite Maresca rumors
Pep Guardiola showed frustration by reiterating his desire to finish his contract at Manchester City despite rumors suggesting Enzo Maresca was being lined up to replace him.
Guardiola’s current contract expires in the summer of 2027, but fresh rumors have circulated that Maresca has already been tipped to succeed him at the Etihad, with the Italian’s talks with City one of the reasons for his departure yesterday from Sunday’s opponents Chelsea.
Speaking after last night’s 0-0 draw at Sunderland, a result which means City are now four points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal, Guardiola said: “No idea. I’m pretty sure you have more information than me.
“How can I give you an update on an opinion that is just an opinion and a rumor? I’m not going to respond to that.”
I have a contract – Guardiola
Pressed again on his own future, Guardiola said: “Oh my God. I have a contract. I say it a thousand million times, I know you miss me, I’ve been here for 10 years and I promise you I’ll leave one day but I have a contract, I’m happy, I want to fight with my team.
“The hierarchy respect me – they proved it last season when we didn’t win a game in three months and they supported me.”
Maresca was part of Guardiola’s technical staff before leaving for Leicester then Chelsea.
Asked about his departure from Stamford Bridge, Guardiola said: “All I can say is that from my point of view, Chelsea have lost an incredible manager and an incredible person. It’s a decision from the Chelsea hierarchy so I have nothing to say. How lucky I am at the club I’m at. My club is extraordinary.”
Rodri and Doku could start against Chelsea
There was mixed news on the injury front last night, with Nico Gonzalez and Savinho both out injured at the Stadium of Light, but Rodri and Jeremy Doku making impressive appearances off the bench.
Asked if Rodri and Doku would play against Chelsea, Guardiola replied: ‘We have to see – not much time [between games]. Rodri is back but him and Jeremy [Doku] come from long injuries so we have to be careful.
“We will speak with the doctors and physiotherapists. We will miss Savinho but the more difficulties there are, the stronger we will be.”
