Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.
Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, 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 fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.
