Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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 boss in June 2024, is under 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 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Recent Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.