Man City 'must prepare' for successor, says Guardiola

Maresca became Chelsea boss in June 2024 and has a contract running until 2029, with an option to extend by a further season.

When asked whether there was any truth to the reports linking him with a role at Manchester City, the Italian said: "It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation. 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."

Fourth-placed Chelsea play Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday at 12:30.

Maresca's comments come after he said "many people" caused his "worst 48 hours" since joining Chelsea following a 2-0 win at home to Everton last weekend.

Those remarks sparked talk of a rift between the manager and controlling owner Behdad Eghbali, along with sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.

When asked if he had spoken to those key figures, Maresca said: "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

Maresca then replied "absolutely, yes" when asked if he would remain at the club next season, and he also urged fans to "continue to support the team".

There was some positive news for Chelsea when Maresca revealed forwards Liam Delap (shoulder) and Estevao Willian (muscle) could return earlier than expected to face Aston Villa on 27 December.

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