🔗 Share this article Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip Enzo Maresca was once an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available. "It doesn't bother 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Strain Following Previous Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Perspective: An 'Open Wound' The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed. The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
Enzo Maresca was once an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation". The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available. "It doesn't bother 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation." Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture. Strain Following Previous Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers. When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no." The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team". In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December. Perspective: An 'Open Wound' The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease. While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed. The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season. Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.