Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.
Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is not true."
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain Following Recent Comments
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled widespread 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 leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.
The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.
Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.
