Enzo Maresca’s stance on taking Premier League job after Chelsea axe | Football | Sport

Maresca left Chelsea on New Year’s Day following rising tensions behind the scenes. One factor contributing to the relationship breakdown was the Italian’s connections with his previous club.

Maresca had two stints working at City, and Guardiola branded him as “one of the best in the world” in early December, intensifying speculation he could be being prepared as his replacement.

“It doesn’t affect me at all because I know that is 100 per cent speculation,” Maresca said when questioned about the City links in December.

“And at this moment, there is no time for these kind 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 arrived at Chelsea in June 2024 following his successful promotion campaign from the Championship with Leicester City.

He secured the Conference League and Club World Cup last summer after steering the Blues to fourth place in the Premier League to secure a return to the Champions League.

However, he was dismissed via a 99-word statement on New Year’s Day.

Chelsea announced: “Chelsea Football Club and Head Coach Enzo Maresca have parted company.

“During his time at the Club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the Club.

“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future.”