Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.
Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.
"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."
He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."
Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.
Tensions Following Previous Remarks
Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.
Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."
The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".
In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.
Perspective: An 'Open Wound'
The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.
While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.
The mood during these media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.
Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.
