Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He went on to explain, 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 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 without foundation."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.
The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.