Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has firmly dismissed speculation linking him with a potential move to Manchester City, insisting rumours that he could succeed Pep Guardiola are completely unfounded.
The 45-year-old Italian, who previously worked as an assistant to Guardiola during his time at City, has been named in several reports as a possible replacement should the City boss step aside at the end of the season. However, Maresca made it clear that such talk has no impact on him.
Speaking to the media on Friday, as reported by BBC Sport, Maresca described the claims as pure speculation.
“It doesn’t affect me because I know it is 100 per cent speculation, and I don’t have time for these things,” he said.
“I have a contract here until 2029. My focus is fully on this club, and I am proud to be here.”
Maresca also revealed that this was not the first time he had been linked with another top job, noting that similar rumours had surfaced recently in Italy.
“One week ago in Italy, it was the same with Juventus,” he added.
“I don’t pay attention to it. It’s important to understand why this kind of news comes up, but in the end, it’s just speculation.”
With Chelsea currently sitting fourth in the Premier League table, the former midfielder stressed that his attention is on immediate challenges, particularly this weekend’s clash.
Chelsea travel to St James’ Park on Saturday to face Newcastle United in what Maresca expects to be a tough encounter.
“The Newcastle game is important and very difficult,” he said.
Maresca’s comments underline his commitment to Chelsea, making it clear that his priority remains steering the club’s season rather than being distracted by transfer or managerial rumours.
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