Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has dismissed speculation linking him with replacing Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
Maresca is understood to be on Manchester City’s shortlist of potential successors to Guardiola, who could leave at the end of the season.
There is an increasing expectation that this will be Guardiola’s final season at the Etihad, after a decorated decade in Manchester.
Maresca previously worked alongside Guardiola as part of the Citizens’ coaching staff. He left for Leicester City and led the Foxes to promotion from the Championship, before taking over at Chelsea in 2024. During his debut season, Maresca guided the West Londoners to the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup.
However, the Italian has dismissed reports he could move to Manchester City as ‘100 percent speculation’. He insisted he pays no attention to the rumours and said he will still be Chelsea manager next season.
“It doesn’t affect me because I know it is 100 percent speculation and I don’t have time for these things. I have a contract here until 2029. My focus is just on this club and I am proud to be here,” he said at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Newcastle this weekend.
“One week ago in Italy, it was the same with Juventus. I don’t pay attention to it. It’s important to understand why this news was there but it is just speculation. The Newcastle game is important and very difficult.”
Asked if he could guarantee he would be at Chelsea next season, Maresca added: “Yes, absolutely. I have a contract until June 2029.”
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