🔗 Share this article Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move. Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true." Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture. Tensions Following Previous Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no." The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent strain 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 situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed. The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season. Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move. Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true." Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture. Tensions Following Previous Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no." The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent strain 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 situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed. The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season. Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.