Pep Guardiola has firmly dismissed rumours that his former assistant, Enzo Maresca, is being lined up to replace him at Manchester City, branding the speculation as unfounded. The City boss reaffirmed his commitment to the club as they continue their gripping battle with Arsenal for the Premier League title.
Guardiola Shrugs Off Succession Talk
Addressing the media on Saturday 03 January 2026, Guardiola responded with a characteristic mix of humour and defiance when questioned about Maresca, who was recently sacked by Chelsea. The Catalan manager labelled the story "just a rumour" and questioned its origins. In a pointed retort, he asked reporters, "You want to fire me?" before highlighting his existing contract, which runs until 2027.
Guardiola emphasised his happiness at the Etihad Stadium, stating, "I have a contract, I'm happy, I want to fight with my team. I like to be here." His comments directly counter the narrative that he might depart the club in the summer of 2026, a year earlier than his deal stipulates.
The Complex Search for a Guardiola Successor
The speculation surrounding Maresca inadvertently raised the perennial question of who could eventually succeed the most successful manager in Manchester City's history. While the club undoubtedly has contingency plans, Guardiola remains the unequivocal Plan A, having delivered six Premier League titles and two historic trebles.
Maresca's rapid downfall at Chelsea, where his tenure unravelled in barely a month, served as a stark reminder of the immense difficulty in replicating Guardiola's sustained success. The episode highlighted that being a protégé is no guarantee of being the preferred heir. Other figures educated in the Guardiola school of thought, such as Mikel Arteta, Vincent Kompany, and Xabi Alonso, are often mentioned as more credible long-term candidates, depending on their availability.
Drawing Parallels with Rivals and Predecessors
The situation invites parallels with other managerial greats. Some see a similarity with Arsène Wenger's long reign at Arsenal, where speculated successors came and went. Guardiola may prefer the example of Sir Alex Ferguson, who bowed out at Manchester United as a champion. Perhaps the most relevant recent case is that of his great rival, Jürgen Klopp, who left Liverpool on his own terms after rebuilding the squad.
Guardiola appears energised by his own new-look, younger City side, featuring talents like Nico O'Reilly and Rayan Cherki. This project, coupled with the unwavering support of the club's hierarchy—even during last season's difficult run—suggests he is in no rush to leave. As the Premier League title race with Arsenal reaches its climax, Guardiola's focus remains squarely on the present, not on a succession plan that for now, exists only in rumour.
