Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca referred to the stories about him going back to Manchester City as a “100% speculation” when asked about it before the Blues’ Premier League game against Newcastle United this weekend.
Maresca, who once worked under Pep Guardiola at City, has been speculated as a possible replacement for the boss if he decides to leave at the end of the season. The Italian, however, was very quick to dismiss the rumors, and he said that his mind is totally with Chelsea.
“I have a contract here until 2029. To me, the only thing that exists is this club and I’m very happy that this is where I am.” Maresca told reporters. “It doesn’t bother me when such things are said. It has happened before and it is only talk.”
The 44-year-old was appointed as Chelsea’s head coach in June 2024, and he has gone on to have a great start as a manager. In the first year of his tenure, he has led the team to Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs. Following his statements after last weekend’s 2–0 triumph over Everton, there has been talk of friction within the team, but Maresca restated his love for the club and said that he expected to be in charge next season.
It will be Liam Delap and Dario Essugo who will be making a comeback from injuries, confirmed Maresca, while giving a hint of who will be available for the Sunday game at St James’ Park. Romeo Lavia and Levi Colwill are still out, he added. Maresca also spoke at length about the tough match Newcastle will pose for them, stating that their home advantage and consistency in playing Chelsea make them impressive.
