Softfootball understands that Pep Guardiola has made it clear once again when asked about rumours suggesting his time at Manchester City could soon be coming to an end. The city manager replied, sounding slightly amused but also a bit frustrated.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account, speaking ahead of Manchester City’s clash against Chelsea, Guardiola was asked about speculation linking former assistant Enzo Maresca, who recently parted ways with Chelsea, with a possible move back to the Etihad.
He said:
Pep Guardiola on his future: You want to fire me?! No, good. My salary is so high. So I have one more year on my contract. How can I give you an update about an opinion that I don’t know about, this opinion – it’s just a rumour. So, I’m sorry, I’m not going to answer that.
Despite a slightly inconsistent run on the pitch, including a recent goalless draw with Sunderland that left City four points behind Arsenal, Guardiola insisted his commitment hasn’t changed.
He also reminded reporters of the club’s backing during last season’s rough patch, when results disappeared for nearly three months. That support, he said, mattered.
Guardiola did acknowledge, after some hesitation, that his time as City manager will not last forever. He made it clear, however, that his departure is not imminent and that any decision about when he steps away will be made on his own terms, rather than being influenced by the media or outside voices.
Despite reports suggesting that Maresca has held discussions with Manchester City, both he and Pep Guardiola have moved to play down any potential link.
Guardiola has described Maresca as an incredible manager but was quick to underline that his full focus remains on the present campaign. With Guardiola firmly in control and fully committed, Manchester City’s immediate future continues to rest in steady, familiar hands.
