🔗 Share this article Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip Enzo Maresca was once an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off. Tensions Following Previous Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated 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 apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved. The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their remaining matches. The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
Enzo Maresca was once an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off. Tensions Following Previous Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated 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 apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved. The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their remaining matches. The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.