Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions After Recent Comments
Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.