Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca firmly denies reports suggesting he could replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, calling the claims baseless speculation.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has vehemently dismissed recent media reports linking him to a potential managerial role at Manchester City, labeling the stories as entirely unfounded.
The Italian tactician, who previously served as Pep Guardiola's assistant during Manchester City's historic treble-winning 2022/23 campaign, addressed the rumors during Friday's press conference ahead of Chelsea's Premier League clash with Newcastle. "It doesn't affect me at all because I know it's 100 percent speculation," Maresca stated emphatically.
"I have a contract here until 2029. My focus is solely on this club, and I'm very proud to be here."
The speculation arose following reports that Manchester City are considering contingency plans should Guardiola decide to leave the Etihad Stadium, despite his current contract running until 2027. Maresca, who has enjoyed success since becoming a head coach - winning the Championship with Leicester and securing two trophies with Chelsea - showed little patience for the rumors.
When pressed about his future, Maresca made clear his commitment to Chelsea: "Absolutely, yes [I'll be here next season]. Again, I have a contract until 2029 and this is speculation. I'm just focused on the Newcastle game and my job."
The Chelsea boss also took the opportunity to deflect similar recent rumors linking him to Juventus, demonstrating a pattern of media speculation surrounding his career.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola addressed questions about his own Manchester City future, maintaining his typical coy stance. "There are no discussions about my future," the Catalan manager stated, though he acknowledged the club must always prepare for eventual changes.
"Sooner or later, I will quit Manchester City. But I have 18 months left on my contract and I'm delighted with the team's development."
Shifting focus to squad news, Maresca provided positive updates on injured players:
As the Premier League's winter schedule intensifies, Maresca appears determined to keep all attention on Chelsea's performances rather than speculative transfer rumors.
Manchester City's striker, Erling Haaland, is facing a tough time on the field, described by his manager as playing in "the most difficult position on the planet."
Manchester City faced a setback with a goalless draw against Aston Villa in the WSL, while Arsenal secured a win against London City and Liverpool added pressure on Leicester.
Leeds United managed to secure a valuable point against Crystal Palace in a dramatic match that saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin miss a penalty and Gabriel Gudmundsson receive a red card.
Sky Sports analyst predicts Sunderland could disrupt Arsenal's 10-game winning streak in Saturday's high-stakes Premier League encounter.
Manchester United and Arsenal face off in the 2025–26 Premier League's marquee opening match, with both teams looking to bounce back from disappointing 2024–25 campaigns. United’s new forward signings and Arsenal’s strategic summer additions set the stage for a high-stakes clash at Old Trafford.
As the Premier League kicks off another season, record-breaking spending by top clubs has intensified the competition. Liverpool, fresh off their title win, faces a daunting challenge to defend their crown against rivals who have significantly bolstered their squads.
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