Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has dismissed reports linking him with a move to Manchester City, describing them as “100% speculation.”
The rumours, which surfaced on Thursday, suggested City had identified the Italian as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola should the Spaniard depart at the end of the season. Maresca previously served at the Etihad Stadium as Under-23 coach and later as Guardiola’s assistant before taking charge at Leicester City in 2023.
Ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash against Newcastle on Saturday, Maresca insisted the speculation had no effect on him and reaffirmed his focus on the London club.
“I have a contract here until 2029, and my focus is only on Chelsea,” he said. “I’m very proud to be here. One week ago it was Juventus; now it’s Manchester City. I don’t pay attention because I know it’s not true.”
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When asked if he would remain at Chelsea next season, Maresca responded unequivocally: “Absolutely, yes.”
The 44-year-old joined Chelsea in June 2024 on a long-term deal, with an option for an additional year. Chelsea are currently fourth in the Premier League and face Newcastle in the early kick-off at St James’ Park.
Maresca’s statement comes after his remarks following last weekend’s 2-0 victory over Everton, when he described the period as his “worst 48 hours” since joining the club. Those comments had sparked speculation about tensions with club ownership and sporting directors.
The Italian, however, downplayed any rift, insisting discussions with senior figures remain normal, though he has not revisited his Everton press conference comments.
Maresca also appealed to Chelsea supporters to maintain their backing and revealed that forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return from injury sooner than expected, potentially featuring against Aston Villa on December 27.
