Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Rumour
Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a move to Manchester City as "100% speculation".
The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.
Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.
"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.
Strain After Previous Remarks
Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.
Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.
When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."
The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season 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 return ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.
Analysis: Unresolved Tension
The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.
While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.
The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.
Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.
The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.
