Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked 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 media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention 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 cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao 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 disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.