Enzo Maresca Debunks Guardiola Successor Talk, Reaffirms Commitment To Chelsea

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has played down growing speculation linking him with a future move to Manchester City, insisting reports that he could replace Pep Guardiola are untrue.

The Italian, who previously worked as Guardiola’s assistant at City, has been mentioned in recent discussions as the club begins planning for the long term amid uncertainty over whether Guardiola will remain in charge beyond next season.

Since arriving in 2016, Guardiola has become one of the most influential figures in City’s history, guiding them to six Premier League titles and the Champions League crown in the 2022-2023 campaign.

Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Newcastle on Saturday, Maresca said: “It doesn’t affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation. And at this moment, there is no time for these kinds 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.

“It’s important to understand why this news was there but it is just speculation.”

Maresca took charge at Stamford Bridge in June 2024 and is contracted until 2029, with an option for a further year. His immediate focus is on maintaining Chelsea’s strong league form, with the Blues sitting fourth ahead of Saturday’s 1:30 p.m. kick-off against Newcastle.

The City rumours surfaced shortly after Maresca admitted he had endured his “worst 48 hours” since joining Chelsea, despite overseeing a 2-0 home victory over Everton last weekend.

Those comments sparked suggestions of a possible rift between the manager and the club’s leadership, including co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali and sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.

When asked whether he had discussed the situation with those figures, Maresca sought to ease concerns.

“We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no,” he said.

The Chelsea boss also moved quickly to reassure supporters about his future, replying “absolutely, yes” when asked if he would still be in charge next season.

He added a direct appeal to fans to “continue to support the team”.