Man City's Pep Guardiola backs sacked Chelsea boss ahead of Etihad showdown

Speaking ahead of City's Premier League meeting with Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Guardiola offered sympathy for his former colleague, who had previously worked within City's development system, but made it clear the decision lay solely with Chelsea's hierarchy.

"From my point of view, Chelsea lost an incredible manager and an incredible person," Guardiola said. "But this decision is from the hierarchy of Chelsea, so nothing more to say."

Reports had suggested Maresca could eventually return to Manchester City in some capacity, but Guardiola shut down any suggestion that the situation affected his own position. The City manager underlined his commitment to the club and pointed to the backing he received during difficult periods last season.

"I have a contract. I'm happy. I want to fight with my team," he said. "The hierarchy respect me. That was proved last season when we didn't win for two or three months and they supported me. So what can I do? I want to try and do it."

Guardiola also refused to be drawn into Chelsea's uncertainty on the touchline ahead of Sunday's game.

"We won't talk much if we don't know which manager will be there," he said. "Chelsea have always been dangerous. The Premier League is dangerous every game."

On his own squad, Guardiola confirmed City were still carefully managing players returning from injury during a demanding festive schedule.

"Rodri and Jeremy Doku came back from long injuries, so we have to be careful and speak with the doctors," he explained. "Nico Gonzalez has been outstanding for us. Rodri is Rodri, everybody knows it, but we have to be careful."

City, Guardiola stressed, remained focused on recovery, rotation and results, with no distractions beyond the pitch.

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