Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about 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, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: 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 results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.
