Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.
Strain Following Previous Comments
Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains 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 unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.
