Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has issued a firm and public rebuttal to mounting speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge, labelling reports of a potential departure as completely unfounded.
Maresca's Blunt Response to Exit Rumours
Speaking at a press conference on Friday 19 December 2025, the Italian manager directly addressed stories linking him with a move away from Chelsea, possibly to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know it's 100 per cent speculation," Maresca stated emphatically.
He pointed to his long-term contract, which runs until 2029, as clear evidence of his commitment. "In this moment, there is no time for these kinds of things, first of all because I have a contract here until 2029," he explained. "I said many times, my focus is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here."
Background of Speculation and Tension
The rumours gained traction following a report by The Athletic this week, which suggested Maresca could be a leading candidate for the Manchester City job should Guardiola leave at the season's end. This speculation was further fuelled by cryptic comments from Maresca himself after Chelsea's 2-0 win over Everton last week.
On that occasion, the coach revealed that "the last 48 hours have been the worst 48 hours since I joined the club because so many people didn't support us." He declined to elaborate on those remarks before or after Chelsea's subsequent Carabao Cup quarter-final victory at Cardiff, maintaining a focus on football matters.
Focus Remains on Chelsea's Campaign
Dismissing the chatter as a recurring distraction, Maresca noted that similar stories had recently linked him with Juventus in Italy. "It's speculation. One week ago, in Italy, it was the same with Juventus. I don't pay attention because I know it's not true," he said.
His immediate attention is now firmly fixed on Chelsea's upcoming Premier League fixture, an away match against Newcastle United on Saturday lunchtime. The manager's clear message is designed to settle any unrest and ensure full concentration is on the team's performance for the busy festive period and beyond.
