Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
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 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 Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian did confirm 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 attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.
