🔗 Share this article Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true." Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea. Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed. The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign. Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games. The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true." Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea. Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed. The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign. Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games. The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.