Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports 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 in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.