Pep Guardiola was left stunned after finding out Enzo Maresca’s nickname as the Manchester City boss gave a hilarious response.
Guardiola and Maresca collaborated at Manchester City, where the Italian initially coached the Elite Development Squad before joining Guardiola’s staff. Maresca later departed from his position at the Etihad to become the manager of Leicester City, leading the team to win the Championship title last season.
He was named Chelsea’s manager this summer, and next season he will be facing off against Guardiola with his managerial skills.
Before their direct encounter on the opening weekend of the new Premier League season, Maresca and Guardiola will face each other in a pre-season match.
In a press conference before tonight’s game, Guardiola was informed of Maresca’s nickname, “Diet Pep,” and responded with a surprised, “Diet?!”
The Manchester City press officer clarified the nickname, saying, “It’s like you, but not quite you.”
Guardiola responded, “It’s because of the hair… and the beard.”
Upon hearing about Maresca’s nickname, Guardiola went on to praise the 44-year-old, saying, “I’m really pleased. We had a special year together, and during our time with the second team, he was an incredible and lovely person, as is his family.”
He did an incredible job at Leicester, earning promotion to the Premier League and now being with one of the top five or six teams in England. I wish him all the best because he truly deserves it.
“Nice people deserve the best, and as a manager, it’s crucial to have a deep belief in your ideas and to stick with them regardless of the results. That’s why he has faith in what he does and will achieve success. I’m not sure how long it will take, but he will succeed.”
Chelsea will play against Man City tonight in Columbus, Ohio, before facing each other again in a league match on August 18.
