🔗 Share this article Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Rumour Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things." He further elaborated, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Remarks Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager 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 facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved. The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
Enzo Maresca previously worked as an coach to Pep Guardiola with Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move. Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things." He further elaborated, "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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off. Tensions Following Recent Remarks Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager 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 facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no." The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Analysis: Unresolved Tension The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved. The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches. The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.