Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
