🔗 Share this article Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved. The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved. The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.