Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has forcefully dismissed mounting speculation linking him with the Manchester City job, insisting he will 'absolutely' remain in charge at Stamford Bridge next season.
Firm Denial Amid Guardiola Succession Talk
Addressing the media at Chelsea's Cobham training base on Friday morning, the Italian boss was unequivocal when asked if he could promise to stay with the Blues. 'Absolutely, yes,' Maresca stated. 'I have a contract until 2029, and this is speculation, one hundred per cent.'
Maresca's name has emerged as a leading contender to succeed Pep Guardiola should the Catalan coach leave the Etihad Stadium next summer. The connection is clear: Maresca worked as part of Guardiola's backroom staff during Manchester City's historic treble-winning 2022-23 campaign. His recent decision to be represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes and unusual comments in recent press conferences had further fuelled the rumours.
'My Focus is Solely on This Club'
The Chelsea head coach made it clear that the gossip has not distracted him or his squad. 'It doesn't affect me at all because I know it is one hundred per cent speculation,' he explained. 'At this moment, there is no time for this kind of thing. Firstly, because I have a contract here until 2029 probably. My focus is solely on this club and I am very proud to be here. Again, it is speculation.'
He drew a parallel with similar rumours linking him to Juventus just a week earlier, which he also ignored because he 'knew it wasn't true.' Maresca confirmed he has spoken with Chelsea's sporting directors this week, but not about the Everton press conference fallout, and his only message to fans was to continue their support.
Chelsea Remain Unconcerned by Exit Talk
The club itself declined to comment on the City rumours on Thursday. However, it is understood that Chelsea are relaxed about the situation, given Maresca's contractual position. His deal technically runs until 2030, as the club holds an option for an additional year.
It has been a peculiar week for the Blues, who secured a Premier League win over Everton last Saturday and beat Cardiff City to reach the Carabao Cup semi-finals on Tuesday, only to then navigate persistent speculation surrounding their manager's future. For now, Maresca's attention is firmly fixed on Saturday's challenging midday Premier League fixture away at Newcastle United.
