🔗 Share this article Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture. Strain Following Previous Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers. When asked 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 press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Perspective: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease. While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved. The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position 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 good results in their final games. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available. "It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture. Strain Following Previous Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers. When asked 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 press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Perspective: An 'Open Wound' The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease. While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved. The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position 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 good results in their final games. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.