“You have lost an extraordinary coach in Maresca and you’ll come to regret it. There’s only a handful of managers that are at our level. Let’s see how far you can go without him” – This is according to Pep Guardiola as he has cautioned that Chelsea will be without an “extraordinary, exceptional manager” following the departure of Enzo Maresca.

Pep Guardiola has stated that Chelsea’s decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca means they have lost an “exceptional, truly remarkable manager.” The Manchester City boss commented on the situation ahead of his team’s match against Chelsea, reflecting on Maresca’s departure less than two years after he left City’s coaching staff to take the helm at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca was a key figure in City’s historic Treble-winning 2022/23 season, earning high regard within the club for his tactical insight. Guardiola, when asked about Chelsea’s choice to dismiss Maresca, expressed his view that the London club had let go of a top-tier coach and person, though he respected it as a decision made by their leadership.

The City manager also noted that such events in football reinforce how fortunate he feels to be at a club with such strong support. He confirmed his intention to personally contact Maresca in the near future.

Guardiola’s comments underscore the high esteem in which Maresca is held at Manchester City and are likely to intensify speculation about the Italian’s next career move. For now, Guardiola’s immediate focus is on the upcoming fixture, but Maresca’s availability could have significant implications for other clubs in the Premier League looking for a highly-rated manager.