Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final games.
The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear settled.