🔗 Share this article Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move. Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 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 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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Tensions Following Recent Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed. The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches. The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move. Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 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 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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Tensions Following Recent Remarks Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed. The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches. The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.