‘Oh my God, I have a contract!’ Exasperated Guardiola plays down talk of Man City departure in the summer despite Maresca rumours

Pep Guardiola cut a frustrated figure as he reiterated his desire to see out his contract at Manchester City despite rumours suggesting Enzo Maresca has been lined up to replace him.

Guardiola’s current deal expires in the summer of 2027 but there has been renewed speculation that Maresca has already been sounded out to succeed him at the Etihad with the Italian’s talks with City one of the reasons for his departure from Sunday’s opponents Chelsea yesterday.

Speaking after last night’s hard-fought 0-0 draw at Sunderland, a result that means City are now four points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal, Guardiola said: “No idea. I’m pretty sure you have more info than me.

“How can I give you an update about an opinion that is just an opinion and a rumour? I’m not going to answer that.”

I have a contract – Guardiola

Pressed again on his own future, Guardiola snapped: “Oh my god. I have a contract. I say a thousand million times, I know you’re bored of me I’ve been here for 10 years and I promise you I will leave one day but I have a contract, I’m happy, I want to fight with my team.

“The hierarchy respect me – they proved last season when we didn’t win one game in three months and they supported me.”

Maresca was a part of Guardiola’s coaching 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’ve nothing to say. How lucky I am in the club where I am. 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 coming off with injuries at the Stadium of Light but Rodri and Jeremy Doku making impressive appearances from the bench.

Asked whether Rodri and Doku will feature against Chelsea, Guardiola said: “We have to see – not much time [between games]. Rodri is back but both he and Jeremy [Doku] come from long injuries so we have to be careful.

“We will talk with the doctors and physios. We will miss Savinho but the more difficulties, the stronger we will be.”