Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential 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 such distractions."
He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. 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 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Tensions Following Previous Comments
Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.
When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".
In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
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 publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.
The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final matches.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.