Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.
