Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has unequivocally dismissed reports linking him with a potential move to Manchester City, branding such claims as “100 per cent speculation.” Speaking at a press conference, Maresca reiterated his steadfast commitment to Stamford Bridge, where he remains under contract until 2029. His firm stance comes amid growing media conjecture about his long-term future with the London club.

The speculation intensified following a recent report by The Athletic, which suggested Maresca could be a leading candidate to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City should the Catalan manager decide to depart at the end of the current season. Guardiola’s future at the Etihad Stadium has periodically been a subject of discussion, leading to various names being floated as potential replacements.

These transfer rumours emerged shortly after Maresca himself sparked widespread discussion with cryptic comments about internal dissatisfaction at Chelsea. Following his side’s 2-0 victory over Everton last week, the head coach revealed that the preceding “last 48 hours have been the worst 48 hours since I joined the club because so many people didn’t support us.” This statement hinted at underlying tensions within the club’s environment.

Maresca, however, declined to elaborate on those remarks, both before and after Chelsea’s subsequent Carabao Cup quarter-final win against Cardiff in midweek. He maintained a consistent message of focusing solely on the immediate tasks at hand, asserting that it was “business as usual” as his team prepared for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle United.

Addressing the swirling transfer talk directly, Maresca emphasised that the external noise held no sway over his focus. “It doesn’t affect me at all because I know it’s 100 per cent speculation,” he stated on Friday. “In this moment, there is no time for these kinds of things, first of all, because I have a contract here until 2029.” He underscored his dedication to the Blues.

The Italian manager also highlighted a pattern of recurrent speculation regarding his career. “One week ago, in Italy, it was the same with Juventus,” Maresca noted, dismissing these reports as unsubstantiated. “I don’t pay attention because I know it’s not true. It’s just speculation. It’s important to understand the reason why this news was there. It’s not my job. I don’t care at all.”

Maresca articulated a clear vision for his tenure at Chelsea, expressing a strong desire to achieve significant milestones with the club. When pressed on his presence at Stamford Bridge next season, he responded firmly, “Absolutely, yes. I have a contract until 2029.” He added, “I have a lot to achieve here. We achieved the third semi-final in 18 months the other day.” He aims to build upon the team’s current trajectory.

The Chelsea boss affirmed his commitment to improving the team’s performance and standing within English football. He acknowledged the high expectations associated with managing a club of Chelsea’s stature, stating his ambition to surpass previous achievements and lead the team to sustained success. His focus remains on the developmental aspects of the squad and tactical preparations for upcoming challenges.

Maresca further confirmed that he had engaged in discussions with the club’s hierarchy since the Everton match, though he clarified these conversations did not revolve around his post-game comments. “About the Everton press conference? No. About other things? Yes,” he stated, indicating ongoing dialogue about broader club matters rather than the internal dissent he alluded to.

With the Premier League clash against Newcastle looming, Maresca underscored the importance of maintaining singular concentration. He dismissed any personal distraction from the transfer rumours, asserting his sole focus rests on preparing his squad for what he anticipates will be a challenging encounter. His professional demeanour aims to project stability amidst the external noise.

Read Original

Keywords: Enzo Maresca, Chelsea manager, Manchester City links, Premier League, Stamford Bridge, Pep Guardiola successor, Chelsea transfer speculation, Maresca contract 2029