🔗 Share this article Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things." He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Strain After Recent Remarks Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved. The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season. Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things." He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Strain After Recent Remarks Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved. The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season. Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their remaining games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.