Enzo Maresca makes Man City statement as Chelsea draw up shortlist of replacements

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has addressed speculation that he could become Manchester City’s next manager.

Esteemed transfer journalist David Ornstein broke the news on Thursday that City are following the Italian with interest should Pep Guardiola leave the Etihad Stadium next summer.

These rumours arose in the wake of Maresca claiming he had been through the worst 48 hours of his Chelsea tenure following a 2-0 win over Everton last week.

The former Leicester boss swiftly addressed the claims as he spoke to the media ahead of the Blues’ Premier League clash with Newcastle United on Saturday.

Enzo Maresca on Man City manager rumours

“It doesn’t affect me at all because I know it’s 100 per cent speculation,” Maresca said.

“In this moment, there is no time for these kinds of things, first of all because I have a contract here until 2029.

“I said many times, my focus is just about this club and I’m very proud to be here.

“It’s speculation. One week ago, in Italy, it was the same with Juventus.

“I don’t pay attention because I know it’s not true.

“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.”

Chelsea’s Maresca stance revealed

Maresca’s public position on the rumours is mirrored by Chelsea’s behind the scenes.

“Sources insist there is a sense of calm and business as usual,” The Athletic reports.

It does state, however, that there will be a review into Maresca’s position at the end of the season, with the goal for the Blues to qualify for the Champions League and perform well in all three cup competitions.

Chelsea also have a shortlist of replacements already drawn up in case the coach does depart, but The Athletic stresses this is a matter of course for all clubs.

It adds: “This should not be read into too much, given the recent events. It is standard practice and was already in place before Maresca’s outburst last weekend. No professional organisation wants to start from scratch in the event someone leaves, whatever the reason for that is. You simply have to prepare for all possibilities.”

So the message is clear: Maresca does not expect to leave Chelsea, and the Blues do not anticipate a change at this point either – even if they are prepared for it.

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