Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year 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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 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 top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, 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 "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.
