🔗 Share this article Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He further elaborated, "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 honoured 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed. The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign. Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future. Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He further elaborated, "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 honoured 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Comments Maresca's most recent comments follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers. When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed. The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign. Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining games. The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.