🔗 Share this article Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions." He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to 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 set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions After Previous Comments Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters 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 available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern. While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved. The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions." He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to 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 set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions After Previous Comments Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters 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 available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern. While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved. The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.