Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"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 these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.