Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester 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 previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.