“Important to understand why this news was there" - Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca responds to Man City switch links

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has rebuffed reports linking him with the Manchester City job. The Italian said that he does not pay attention to rumors, adding that it was Juventus last week, but he remains committed to the Stamford Bridge side.

Speaking to the media ahead of the Newcastle United clash in the Premier League, Maresca was quizzed about rumors linking him to the Manchester City job if Pep Guardiola leaves at the end of the season. He was quick to point at his contract until 2029 at Chelsea and said (via Football London):

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation. And in this moment, there is no time for these kind of things. First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029 probably. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was in Italy, the same with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Maresca went on to state that it was pure speculation and nothing more, adding:

"I think it's just a speculation. Now, it's important to understand the reason why this news was there. But it's not my job, I don't care at all. But again, it's just a speculation. And I think the players, they are focused on a Newcastle game that is a very important game and very difficult."

Enzo Maresca has a contract with Chelsea until 2029, with the club having the option to extend it by another season. The Athletic reported on Thursday, December 18, that Manchester City were keeping tabs on the Italian coach.

Enzo Maresca committed to Chelsea beyond the season

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has guaranteed that he will be the manager at Stamford Bridge next season. The former Leicester City coach has no doubts about his future at the club and said:

"Absolutely, yes. Again, I have a contract until 2029, and this is speculation 100%. So I don't have nothing to add, because again, I don't pay attention. And if we continue to talk about that, that means that I'm paying attention to that. But I'm not focused on that. I'm just focused on the Newcastle game. I'm focused on my job. Again, I signed a contract last year until 2029. I'm happy with that, and no more than that."

Chelsea appointed Maresca in 2024, and the manager guided them to win the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup in his first season. He has now taken them to the Carabao Cup semifinal, after beating Cardiff City earlier this week.