Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent 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, responded to the ongoing 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 possible extra year option.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Strain After Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers 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 strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.
While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their final matches.
The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.
