Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.
