Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking 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, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.
