🔗 Share this article Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour Enzo Maresca was once an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it 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 lunchtime fixture. Tensions After Recent Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed. The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final matches. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
Enzo Maresca was once an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay. The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future. Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions." He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it 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 lunchtime fixture. Tensions After Recent Remarks Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea. Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy. When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no." The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team". In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month. Analysis: An 'Open Wound' The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern. While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed. The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign. Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final matches. The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.