๐ Share this article Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Strain After Recent Remarks Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Perspective: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect 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 matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved. The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches. The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes 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 gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Strain After Recent Remarks Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Perspective: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect 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 matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved. The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches. The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.