Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions After Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
